News for hackers. Stuff that matters.

A comment on Tell HN: Four (hopefully) unique and useful start-up tips. Parent comment

Re:Tell HN: Four (hopefully) unique and useful start-up tips by unohoo on Tuesday November 24, 2009 @09:17PM (#960460)
<i> No object you're shopping for is precious or unique. Do not get attached to specific items. There are many more just like it or better, in other places, and other times. View it as something you will someday throw away or donate to Goodwill, and you can view it more rationally. That beautiful iPod? In five years it will be trash, and in three you'll probably replace it anyway. In short, always be ready to walk away from any deal. </i>

I'm sorry but I tend to disagree - having the right product' at the 'right time' does make a difference. Sure ipod will be a trash in 5 years, but you sure wouldnt want to go looking to buy a walkman when ipods are in vogue.

[ Parent | on HN ]
Re:Tell HN: Four (hopefully) unique and useful start-up tips by SwellJoe on Tuesday November 24, 2009 @09:39PM (#960498)
OK, if you must have a specific item or service today, then your bargaining power is significantly reduced. Your BATNA (best alternative to a negotiated agreement) is to pay full price from the specific person you're talking to. If your seller detects that through your words or actions, you will always pay full price.

I'm saying that being able to walk away (even if you don't) is your most powerful piece of negotiating leverage. If you go into a negotiation without the ability to walk away, you're in a very weak position, indeed.

[ Parent | on HN ]