Levelling up: the negotiation skills that changed my game

2 minute read
""

I completed the Oxford Programme on Negotiation in June 2024. The programme was a high-paced learning experience, teaching negotiation principles through a balanced mix of theory and practical training, with a focus on win-win negotiation.

As someone committed to personal growth and becoming a more effective individual and business leader, I believe in pursuing new knowledge and embracing fresh challenges. In my view, ongoing learning in the field of negotiation was a key priority, both for creating value for my company and shareholders, and also for my personal development. That’s why I chose to attend Oxford’s negotiation programme.

The classes took place at Saïd Business School, Oxford University, where we spent the bulk of our days. Saïd Business School is a state-of-the-art facility within walking distance from the Marriott Hotel where we stayed. The content of the programme was highly varied, spanning from practical negotiation training – both in small and large groups – to classes with Oxford professors, guest lectures and coaching sessions. It is an international programme with participants from all over the world (I believe there were around 20 different nationalities represented in my class), and the cultural aspect of our highly diverse group made the negotiation simulations more challenging and added immensely to my learning experience. Some of my key insights came from discussions with classmates over breakfast, debriefing and dissecting earlier simulations, and learning about their perspectives.

""

After attending the programme, I feel I have significantly enhanced my overall negotiation skills. My biggest takeaway was learning how to prepare effectively before entering a negotiation. The sessions on this topic were brilliant and provided me with several insights into better structuring my preparations. Back in Stockholm, I have already applied these techniques with very positive results.

I am very pleased that I chose Oxford and their programme on negotiation. I had high expectations before starting the programme, and in retrospect, it lived up to its esteemed reputation.

Many thanks to all the participants, faculty, course tutors, guest lecturers and of course the programme directors. I truly had a fantastic week and gained immense value that I will carry with me for the rest of my life and career.

Oxford Programme on Negotiation