{"product_id":"book-vj40","title":"The Game Before the Play","description":"\u003cp\u003eDo you really think you can win every negotiation?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e If yes - congratulations, you've just entered an episode of \u003cem\u003eMythbusters.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you believe negotiation is about dropping the perfect line at the perfect moment like in a Hollywood movie - sorry, that's not how it works either.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnd if you think everything was already decided in some boardroom and your talk is just a polite formality - you're closer, but still missing the point.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMost negotiations are shaped long before anyone speaks. Outcomes are influenced (sometimes decided) by things like preparation, seniority, reputation, goals, knowledge, power dynamics, and how much energy each side is willing to invest. These factors matter as much as what happens in the room. Put them together and you realize what most people overlook:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThere's a whole game before the play.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis book guides you through that game using \u003cem\u003eThe Playbook Cycle - \u003c\/em\u003ea practical seven-step approach that helps you:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSet clear goals that actually guide your decisions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGather the right information (not just more information)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecode hidden power dynamics and motivations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuild strategies based on reality, not optimism\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdapt when circumstances shift\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecognize when not to negotiate at all\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt's a blend of simple frameworks, real situations, and a touch of humor. It challenges the idea that negotiation is just about arguing better. Sometimes it's about reframing, aligning interests, or walking away with strength, not forcing a win in the moment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThink of negotiation like football: everyone has skills, tactics, and stamina, but the real advantage comes from knowing when to push, when to hold, and when taking a tactical foul saves the whole season. This book is your coach: not for the visible part of negotiation, but for the mindset and preparation that decide everything before the first word is spoken. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"INAudio","offers":[{"title":"Audiobook","offer_id":50222492778800,"sku":"BDvj40","price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0879\/2784\/9264\/files\/vj40-Square-cover.jpg?v=1769723661","url":"https:\/\/downpour.com\/products\/book-vj40","provider":"Downpour","version":"1.0","type":"link"}