In negotiations, according to the principles of metaphysics, the subtle art of “harnessing wind and capturing water” holds paramount importance. A minor gesture can shift the energy flow, leading to unexpected reversals in circumstances. So, how does one seize the initiative in the marketplace negotiations? How can one influence the energetic atmosphere favorably toward their own side?
I. **Meticulous Selection of Negotiation Venue**
From the perspective of metaphysics, it is advisable to conduct negotiations in the “home ground” or opt for a neutral location. It is highly discouraged to negotiate on the adversary’s turf. Those experienced in negotiations with business elites from Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, as well as Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, have grasped this wisdom: it is best to avoid the opponent’s domain and refrain from frequent restroom visits during negotiations, hence, one should limit their water intake.
II. **Choosing an Auspicious Color for Negotiations**
Colors are closely linked with the five elements. Therefore, harmonizing colors with the negotiation setting is crucial. Generally, the main colors corresponding to the five elements—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—are white, green, black, red, and yellow, respectively. For instance, white restrains green, black restrains red, green restrains yellow, red restrains white, and yellow restrains black. If the opposing party is uniformly clad in black suits, one can consider incorporating yellow or green accessories, such as ties, bags, or even shirts. This strategic use of colors allows us to gain an initial advantage.
III. **Significance of Seating Arrangement in Negotiations**
The simplest way to determine the seating arrangement is to avoid sitting on the right side of the opponent, as per the Chinese saying, “the green dragon on the left and the white tiger on the right.” If circumstances dictate that you must sit on the right, exercise caution to avoid potential leaks.
IV. **Guarding Against the “Leaking Water Strategy”**
The opponent might employ the clandestine technique of “harnessing wind and capturing water” during negotiations, subtly encouraging you to consume fruits, beverages, water, alcohol, use the restroom, or even take a bath. The intention is to drain your financial resources. Be vigilant.
V. **Careful Selection of Accommodation Arranged by the Opponent**
Exercise caution when staying at accommodations arranged by the opponent, as the “leaking water strategy” might be at play here as well. For instance, in the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, all the faucets flow in one direction. Once you turn on the tap, your money, not theirs, flows to the hotel owner. This principle holds true globally.
From the above, it becomes evident that in business negotiations, understanding negotiation Feng Shui is essential. This knowledge enhances your business acumen, mitigates risks, and facilitates the desired success. Many actions in negotiations are universal. However, numerous failures can be attributed to a specific action, often a trivial one. Therefore, instantaneous plans can go awry due to inadvertent actions. One might think they’ve secured a victory, but it slips away like a cooked duck that flies off. These failures often stem from the negotiator’s unwitting gestures. The saying “small things can disrupt grand schemes” holds true. When dealing with others, especially during crucial negotiation moments, it is imperative to be aware of and heed the principles of “negotiation Feng Shui” to prevent unforeseen outcomes.
To establish your presence in the marketplace, aside from essential factors like financial strength, internal factors must not be overlooked. This pertains to what we commonly refer to as psychological Feng Shui. In reality, Feng Shui plays a role in the business world, and its effectiveness depends on how you harness it, turning it into a cornerstone for your success.
