Know your counterpart Good negotiators not only know what they want - they also know what the other side wants. Enjoy these related press articles! As any serious job-hunter knows, it helps to dress smartly and smile at that all-important interview. The same also goes for meetings and negotiations - particularly when it comes to that all-important handshake right at the start. A limp, 'wet fish' handshake indicates shyness, and a firm 'pump' shows confidence. This first impression sets the tone for the rest of the meeting. The handshake is thought to have originated in medieval Europe, as a way for kings and knights to show that they didn't intend to harm each other and possessed no concealed weapons. Star quote "If woman ruled the world we wouldn't have wars, just intense negotiations every 28 days" (Robin Williams) Related Know Howe Negotiating a Pay Rise Do the Quiz!

Early-morning Meetings best? No time for a traditional business lunch? Try a Power Breakfast! Read this article from the Financial Times Talk about it - Make a list of pros and cons for power breakfasts versus the traditional business lunch! - Which do you prefer and why? Wake me up before you start the meeting says the Daily Telegraph Psychologists say companies should take greater account of the "body clock" when planning meetings. After all, not all of us are fully awake at ten in the morning, are we? Talk about it What about you, are you an early morning or afternoon person? What time of day do you think meetings are most effective?