Understanding different negotiation styles can really help you improve your skills in negotiating. Here are the main styles you should know about:

1. Competitive Style

• What it is: This style is all about winning.
• Who uses it: Around 15% of negotiators usually use this style.
• Key Traits: People who use this style are assertive, focused on their goals, and often don't want to make compromises.

2. Collaborative Style

• What it is: This style focuses on working together for a win-win situation.
• Who uses it: About 25% of negotiators prefer this method, which usually leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.
• Key Traits: This style involves open communication, building trust, and being creative in finding solutions.

3. Compromising Style

• What it is: This approach tries to find a middle ground where both sides give up something to agree.
• Who uses it: Around 40% of negotiators use this style.
• Key Traits: It aims for quick resolutions, cares about both parties, and is willing to make trade-offs.

4. Avoiding Style

• What it is: In this style, people shy away from the negotiation to avoid conflict.
• Who uses it: About 10% of negotiators prefer this style, especially in tense situations.
• Key Traits: This style involves indirect communication, less engagement, and is usually not very assertive.

5. Accommodating Style

• What it is: This style puts other people's needs ahead of one’s own, often giving up personal goals.
• Who uses it: Around 10-15% of negotiators tend to use this style.
• Key Traits: It shows a high concern for others and often means agreeing too easily, which can lead to unfair deals.

Conclusion

By understanding these different styles, you can improve your negotiation skills. Changing your approach based on the situation and who you’re talking to can help you get better and more satisfying results.