Just about every film features negotiation in one way or another; the only vital difference is there’s (usually) a life in danger when it’s featured on the big screen. Believe it or not, we can genuinely learn a lesson from the various characters stretched across a plethora of films and genres – you just have to think outside the box within a box.
You’ve found yourself in the entertainment section; you didn’t honestly think this would be a serious post, did you?
Captain Phillips (2013)
Tom Hanks stars in one of the best thrillers of recent years as Richard Phillips, a cargo ship Captain. Somali pirates fancy their chances at taking over the ship and without spoiling too much, the ship is hijacked and he is kidnapped. Negotiations engage, deals are struck, betrayal and beards are certainly rife.
There won’t be many times where you have a gun to your head, but it’ll certainly feel like it; persevere at the beginning and you’ll come out the end feeling on top of the world. I really wish I could disclose more here but I don’t wish to spoil, the film is simply incredible – if you haven’t already, go watch it.
So, what’s the lesson?
No matter how tough it gets, remain polite and soften your client (or Somali pirates) with a business lunch (bottle of water). Once you’ve established a friendship, seal the deal.
Avatar (2009)
In the film that practically the entire planet has seen, Jake Sully lives with the Na’vi in the hope of understanding the group. When negotiating, it’s important to be fully aware of what your client wants – if you can establish what this is, you’ll set yourself up for further deals down the line.
Occasionally, you’ll find that the terms of the negotiation are out of your control, which is why integrating with the other party is key. Develop of plan of action with an end goal to reach, but don’t expect everything to go your way. Be wary of surprises and react quickly; your client may no longer require something, you may need to travel further every day or they may attempt a complete U-turn – the way you adapt will shape your negotiation.
Chuck on the uniform and suck it up or fall flat on your face, the ball is in your court.
Meaning…
Adapt to your surroundings to gather a clearer view on what the client wants.
Nightcrawler (2014)
Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Lou Bloom, a wannabe Journalist who succeeds in being the creepiest character 
featured on this list. Midway through the film, it won’t come as a massive surprise that our freelancer wants to sell a story to a news editor, thus requiring a bit of negotiation!
Thankfully, a YouTuber has kindly uploaded the clip after predicting this very article would eventually surface:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18ZDiRsbEZA
Pretty impressive, right?
Luckily for Lou, our news editor has been scripted to eventually give in as it helps the narrative of the film; in real life, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter someone who gives in as easily. However, strip it down and this is a classic negotiation scenario; personal A has something person B wants, an agreement has to be made.
The lesson(s), then?
Know the value of what you’re selling and be firm on your stance.
Be wary that your client could go elsewhere – depending on the circumstances, this may be a good or bad thing.
Every romantic comedy ever (1890-Present)
During a negotiation, your aim may be to find a middle ground between you and your client, but throwing your eggs into one basket during a negotiation is usually a terrible idea. If you give away too much and let the other party know everything there is to know about your stance, they’ll gain leverage and put you in a difficult position.
I challenge you to find a romantic comedy that doesn’t illustrate this. Our two romantics have a deal-breaking secret that is revealed to the other half much to either persons dismay, resulting in a usually temporary break-up – making up with a client is infinitely harder than it is for the couple to back together.
What’s the message?
Simply don’t reveal too many secrets so you can always remain on top of the deal.
And that concludes our list while adding ‘this article’ as a direct reference to the phrase ‘clutching at straws’.
