The more extreme the opening positions and the smaller the…
““The more extreme the opening positions and the smaller the concessions, the more time and effort it will take to discover whether or not agreement is possible.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Negotiators who start with extreme demands and make few concessions waste time and energy testing feasibility of agreement.
In simple terms: Extreme demands delay agreement.
Key Takeaway
Make realistic openings and be flexible.
Themes
negotiation
strategy
communication
Mood
strategic
analytical
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- business deals
- diplomatic talks
- team projects
- contract discussions
Key Concepts
game theory
principled negotiation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you calibrate initial positions for better outcomes?
- What concessions are essential to keep discussions alive?
A Different Perspective
If both parties are inflexible, agreement may never materialize.