When I talk about mastering persuasion and negotiation, people often imagine slick deals, high-pressure tactics, or convincing someone to give in. That’s not what I mean. Whether I’m racing down an icy track as a skeleton athlete or sitting across from a potential business partner, my goal is always to create a shared win.
Persuasion isn’t about overpowering the other person. It’s about connecting, understanding, and guiding the conversation so everyone walks away feeling respected.
Start With Connection
Everything begins with a genuine connection. I’ve learned that people respond to authenticity far more than rehearsed pitches or tricks. I listen first, ask questions, and try to understand their perspective. This isn’t just polite. It’s strategic. When you show you care about someone’s goals and concerns, you naturally build trust. Trust becomes the foundation for every negotiation. Without it, even the most clever argument will fall flat. Mastering persuasion and negotiation starts with this human element. People aren’t numbers or obstacles. They’re collaborators.
Frame Wins Together
Once you’ve connected, the next step is shaping the conversation so both sides feel like they’re winning. I always ask myself: how can I align my goals with theirs? How can I help them see the value in what I’m proposing without feeling pressured? Negotiation isn’t about defeating someone; it’s about finding a path that makes sense for everyone. This mindset keeps your integrity intact while still allowing you to influence outcomes effectively. Every time I negotiate, whether in sports sponsorships or charitable initiatives, I focus on shared victories. That’s the difference between pushing and persuading.
Communicate Clearly and Honestly
Honesty and clarity are non-negotiable. I never exaggerate or hide important information just to get what I want. Transparency builds credibility. People can sense when you’re being authentic, and that alone makes your persuasion stronger. If you want to succeed in mastering persuasion and negotiation, make your intentions clear, articulate your ideas confidently, and be willing to adapt when new information arises. The best deals are rarely the ones that happen through pressure. They happen because both sides feel understood, respected, and empowered.
Keep Learning and Observing
Finally, treat every interaction as a learning opportunity. Watch how others respond, notice patterns, and adjust your approach. Even as a skeleton athlete, I constantly analyze my performance and refine my technique. The same principle applies to negotiation. Each conversation teaches you something new about human behavior and effective influence. Mastering persuasion and negotiation is a lifelong practice, one that grows stronger every time you prioritize connection, honesty, and shared success.
During my journey as the first skeleton athlete from Ghana and its first skeleton Olympian, I’ve always been committed to growth. As an entrepreneur, I want to help other entrepreneurs cultivate the same mindset that drives me.
That’s why I also founded Hope Of A Billion to empower kids from underserved communities, helping them realize their potential and become future leaders across the globe. I’m honored to have our work featured on the Olympics’ official Instagram page alongside legends like Simone Biles, Usain Bolt, and Magic Johnson. Join me in supporting this mission.
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