Skip to content

Communication Quote by Chris Voss

“The language of negotiation is primarily a language of conversation and rapport: a way of quickly establishing relationships and getting people to talk and think together. Which is why when you think of the greatest negotiators of all time, I’ve got a surprise for you—think Oprah Winfrey.” quote by Chris Voss
Download Open image
““The language of negotiation is primarily a language of conversation and rapport: a way of quickly establishing relationships and getting people to talk and think together. Which is why when you think of the greatest negotiators of all time, I’ve got a surprise for you—think Oprah Winfrey.””

Chris Voss

About This Quote

Source Book: Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, 2016

Negotiation relies on building rapport and shared conversation to align thinking and create mutual solutions.

In simple terms: Talk and trust are key to negotiating.

Key Takeaway

Focus on relationship before terms.

Themes

communication rapport negotiation relationship building

Mood

empathetic strategic

Type

instructional inspirational

When to use this quote

  • business deals
  • team meetings
  • conflict resolution
  • sales pitches

Key Concepts

psychology trust collaboration

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you foster genuine rapport quickly?
  • What signals indicate trust is building?
A Different Perspective

If rapport fails, parties may still clash despite conversation.

2.3 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Chris Voss

Explore all 94 Chris Voss quotes

More Communication quotes

Browse all 21,506 Communication quotes