Five Negotiation Tips to Remember for Comedian-Entrepreneurs
A noted expert in “negotiating for yourself at work” sees five important lessons cinematically illustrated in The Social Network, the movie based on the original idea, phenomenal growth – and some might say, theft – of the fast-growing Facebook phenomenon.
Author, attorney and blogger, Alan L. Sklover, shares five critical lessons on workplace negotiation:
1. Protect Your Ideas: Some people believe – with good reason – the idea behind Facebook was actually stolen after those who first thought of it failed to protect themselves from “idea theft.” In his article, Sklover offers simple ways you can protect your ideas when discussing possible business affiliations with others.
2. Know Who Your Lawyer Is, and Who Is Not: According to Sklover, many people wrongly assume their employer’s lawyer (or other party’s attorney) will look out for their own interests because, well “They are supposed to be honest.” Ouch!! Just such an error may have cost one person in the Facebook saga $15 billion.
3. Use “Relative Negotiating” regarding Stock Ownership: For almost 30 years, Sklover has helped executives negotiate their employment relations. He says that, if you are offered stock or stock options, ask for written assurances that you will be treated “no less favorably, in all respects,” as “the most important people in the room.” That way, you won’t end up with worthless shares, as many people do. Another Facebook lesson.
4. Look Out for “Non-Aligned Interests”: This lesson is quite subtle, yet powerful. No doubt you’ve heard the phrase “win-win” solution. In negotiating longer-term matters, such as employment, always try to set up “win-win.” Beware of others who seek different arrangements: they should not be depended on, or trusted.
5. “If You Build It, They Will Come”: This is a famous line from another movie, Field of Dreams. It aptly describes the rock-bottom faith in one’s dreams that every entrepreneur must have.
Alan L. Sklover is an attorney, author and blogger in New York City. He has appeared on CNN, CNBC, National Public Radio, Bloomberg Business Radio, and Court TV. Sklover is the author of Fired, Downsized, or Laid Off: What Your Employer Doesn’t Want You to Know About How to Fight Back
