Published by: Darryl Subloo Articles
Date: May 13, 2025
Introduction
Negotiation is often misunderstood as a competition — but in professional business environments, the goal isn’t to win over someone, but to win with them. Strong negotiations create alignment, preserve relationships, and position both parties for sustainable success.
Throughout his leadership career, Darryl Subloo has applied this philosophy to contracts, partnerships, asset deals, and high-pressure business situations. This article outlines a practical approach to business negotiation that leads to long-term value — not short-term victories.
1. Prepare the Structure, Not Just the Script
Great negotiators don’t just rehearse what to say — they prepare how to move through the entire interaction:
- What are the true goals (not just the obvious ones)?
- Where are the walk-away points?
- What are 3 possible tradeoffs that still create value?
Preparation isn’t about control — it’s about knowing where flexibility exists.
2. Listen Beyond the Language
Often, what the other side isn’t saying is more important than what they are. Darryl Subloo emphasizes:
- Listening for hesitation or tone changes
- Watching when something is repeated or avoided
- Identifying what the other party needs emotionally, not just logistically
3. Know When to Push, and When to Pause
Successful negotiators don’t force progress — they guide it. Pushing too hard too early can shut down deals. Subloo advises using:
- Strategic silence
- Time breaks
- Written follow-ups instead of real-time escalation
Momentum matters, but pressure can be managed with subtlety.
4. Think 6 Months Ahead, Not Just 6 Hours
One of the most overlooked skills in negotiation is future mapping. Ask:
- Will this deal age well?
- Will it create new complications I’m not seeing now?
- Will both parties still feel confident in this agreement in six months?
Short-term wins that erode trust don’t last. Long-term thinking turns deals into foundations.
Conclusion
Negotiation isn’t about having the perfect argument — it’s about finding the right alignment. For Darryl Subloo, every deal is a chance to build partnerships, strengthen structure, and reinforce a leadership reputation based on clarity, fairness, and strategic intent.
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