Brief Summary: I was able to
interview an up and coming artist from the Brooklyn area. His name is Ace
Styles; he’s a writer, actor and rapper. Only twenty-one years of age but has
gained valuable knowledge in his experience within multiple industries
negotiating.
Q: How do you separate the people from the problem when
negotiating?
Answer:
When negotiating a new deal or contract, I try my best to stay focused and take
my time. Paying attention to the content being used during the negotiation is
key. Especially because I am a young artist, some companies try to take
advantage of the situation, thinking my lack of age reflects on my lack of
experience. Details are the main reasons why business is being conducted; I try
to remain focused on that. Often emotions get tied into negotiations because no
one wants to feel like their being cheated or being taken advantage of.
Q: Do you use any dirty tricks when negotiating?
(Laughing) No, I have definitely
been apart of negotiations that really try to “Hard Ball” you and trap you in a
position where you have to either answer yes or no. Often than not the answer
is “No”, people who do negotiate in that manner tend to develop a reputation.
Whether received negatively or positively, it’s still a “reputation”. I try my
best to be as knowledgeable as possible about the business at hand prior to
going into the negotiation, this way I’m prepared.
Q: How do you handle positional bargaining tactics?
It can be challenging at times
pending on the negotiator. If the negotiator positions themselves on a certain
end then I’ll go in a direction that’ll position myself more towards my interest
or even higher. Going into the negotiation I definitely have an idea of what my
target goal is, it really depends on how the negotiator presents the
information.
CL: Thank you for your time, good
luck with your continued career.
Being patient was stressed within this interview. It's interesting to see a young entertainer within the industry have such depth from the experience in negotiations.
