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Simple thoughts .. complex delivery
Simply by writing down the commonly accepted actions and behavior agreed between her and her parents . This "contract" which came as a result of a discussion should include perhaps a "carrot and Stick" type of terms and should be open for addition of new terms . Moreover the terms should be very clear. e.g. should be commonly agreed the number of hours-days!! she could play with her friends.In addition the terms should be open for new negotiation after a specific commonly defined period....This is a way for her to understand firsthhand what contract negotiation is. Be prepared though for growling and protests!!!
Actually I would talk to her in the same way i would talk to an adult. Young children (and especially girls) would like to be treated like adults. I would clearly define what we should agree upon and then to make sure that she feels she will gain what she is asking for. Of course, I would tell her that she has to "pay" for this by give me something back at the same time. IMPORTANT: build trust and approach her with a very positive attitude. Make her realize that both of you should "win" something and be satisfied. The time is also something she should consider.
Kids are the toughest negotiators, succeeding with them is a great achievement that you can replicate in business.
Beyond the very relevant points mentioned by Martha, there is one critical technique to apply, and you may witness this to the extreme with kids.
Have you ever tried the following, assuming that she wants to watch TV and you want her to get her room in order? "Darling, you can watch TV ........... if you get your room in order". She will be gone before you articulate the second part of the sentence, gone to watch TV.
The opposite works better: "Darling, if you get your room in order ...... then you can watch TV". She will be gone before your articulate the second part of your sentence, cleaning her room.
Always mention what you want first, in return of the favour she asks for. And the same applies to adults, including business negotiators.
Chocolate tomorrow if you sleep early today.
It is easy to explain the contract negotiation process to7 years old Niece, because every day unknowingly she practices the same to meet the daily requirement but in unsystematic manner and not knowing the outcome of the same.
Just explain her, I may ask the Question to her that what are the plans for Weekend. Once she explains about her best wish, if it is justified and can be given within permissible budget then Immediately I can promise to fulfill on Weakend but put Condition that all the home work should be completed on daily basis and TV watching not more that one/ teo hrs per day.
Once she will ask why I am Putting such condition then I have to just explain what you demanded I am agree but you should also agree for my demand and it is deal. Now you have to decide what you want. Once the Process is complete then Easily I can coney what was the deal and In business what this deal is known as and Certainly she will easiliy understand the process of negotiation and next time she will apply the same practice with innovation and more tough demand in similar way as it happens in real business world.
