6 Negotiation Lessons from Pawn Stars

For informal negotiation training, most people would not think about watching a reality show. But, right there on the History Channel is a television show that is one of the best at demonstrating what it takes to become a great negotiator: Pawn Stars. By showcasing the daily interactions between the pawn store employees (Pawn Stars) and customers, Pawn Stars can be a perfect example of how to approach a negotiation, as well as how not to approach a negotiation.

In the video above, the Pawn Stars share tips gleaned from their years of experience of daily negotiations with many different customers. One thing to keep in mind while watching the video and reading this newsletter: these negotiation lessons extend to the world outside of pawn shops as well.

While working on your next deal, follow these negotiation tips from Pawn Stars for a successful outcome:

1. Treat everyone with respect. This is something that is clearly emphasized by the Pawn Stars. What most of our parents taught us about how to treat others was solid advice in the world of negotiation. If you treat everyone with courtesy and respect, you will have few problems dealing with people and you will be able to finalize more deals. Why be courteous and respectful to a pawn shop dealer? Because they will do equally well without your life-long treasure. If you can’t sell your product to a private party, and now, because of your lack of courtesy and respect, the pawn shop worker no longer wants to deal with you, when you leave, you will have very few options.

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