FOR THE FORCES OF GOOD

St. Amour delivers a comprehensive guide to the nuanced art of knowing when and how to negotiate like a pro.

The author, an attorney and lecturer, is no stranger to negotiation, having made it her profession for over 20 years. Here she presents a clear, navigable path toward becoming a better negotiator. St. Amour walks readers through the two main negotiation types—deal making and dispute resolution—and breaks down five conflict-handling modes, which include competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating. Each chapter contains a few “Everyday Super Tip[s]” sections that include additional insight and advice (“Being quiet while you wait for your turn to talk is not the same as listening”). While discussing more complex terminologies and concepts, such as the reciprocity principle, the author uses personal anecdotes and examples to drive home her points in an easily digestible way. Readers will walk away with a handy list of dos and don’ts when negotiating with others and will know how to most effectively do so in person, over the phone, or even through email. While qualities like being a good listener can naturally benefit negotiators, they’re by no means required—St. Amour points out that negotiation is just about the stories we tell ourselves: “Storytelling is ancient; there is no stronger connection between people. Stories create bonds between people, emphasize shared values and goals, and bridge differences. This is how deals are sealed and conflicts are healed.” The text, interspersed with the author’s own watercolor paintings and guest drawings, proves admirably inclusive (such as when the author acknowledges her use of cisgender vocabulary in reference to certain studies). Even when diving into more technical aspects, such as analyzing the biological responses of the brain during negotiation, St. Amour never loses sight of the humans behind the deal.

This engaging guide—brimming with advice, heart, and humor—takes a fascinating deep dive into what makes people tick.