Book Review: Getting More: How to Be a Better Negotiator by Stuart Diamond
As an avid reader and someone intrigued by the art of negotiation, I felt compelled to pick up Getting More: How to Be a Better Negotiator by Stuart Diamond. This book, which boasts the title of a New York Times Bestseller, promises to unveil the negotiation strategies utilized by top organizations like Google and even U.S. Special Ops. With the potential to enhance both professional and personal interactions, I was excited to dive in.
From the outset, I found Diamond’s emphasis on emotional intelligence and cultural diversity refreshing. He argues that these factors can yield four times the value compared to traditional, more adversarial negotiation tactics based on power and logic. This approach resonates well with me, particularly in today’s interconnected world. As someone who frequently engages in negotiations—whether that’s discussing project deadlines with colleagues or navigating travel arrangements—I was eager to see how these insights could apply to my everyday life.
Throughout the book, Diamond presents the idea that negotiations are inherent in every human interaction. I couldn’t agree more; whether it’s persuading a child to do their homework or negotiating a work deadline, this book provides actionable strategies that span any context. Diamond’s use of simple, relatable examples, like getting a child to brush their teeth or obtaining a better price on an item, illustrates his points clearly and effectively.
However, I did encounter some criticisms that other readers mentioned, and I find myself aligning with them to some extent. One common concern is that while the concepts are fascinating, some readers felt that the application could be overly simplistic in complex professional settings. I realized this while discussing strategies with colleagues who have different negotiation styles and levels of experience. The fundamental techniques are valuable, but they may require deeper analysis when faced with multifaceted negotiations.
Another drawback cited by readers is the book’s length. At 416 pages, I found myself occasionally skimming certain sections. While Diamond’s insights are profound, a more concise version could have perhaps made the reading experience even more impactful. Some points were reiterated throughout the text, leading me to wonder if they could have been distilled into fewer words without sacrificing depth.
Despite these drawbacks, I believe that Getting More does meet its expectations in delivering a unique negotiation model. Diamond’s comprehensive research—spanning over thirty years and forty thousand people across sixty countries—lends significant credibility to his methods. He provides tools that are “invisible until you first see them,” as stated in the official overview, making it a practical read for anyone willing to explore the dynamics of negotiation in real-life scenarios.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend Getting More to anyone interested in improving their negotiation skills, whether in personal relationships or the professional sphere. While there are a few areas that could benefit from more concise delivery, the overarching messages are invaluable. Diamond paves the way for readers to harness emotional intelligence and cultural awareness—skills that are undoubtedly essential in our global society. With a solid rating of 4.5 stars, this book is a worthwhile addition to any library, promising to enhance everyday interactions and decision-making for its readers.