Leverage is a powerful negotiation tool and one that is easy to abuse. As with all of the other tips, it is best to remember the importance of treating others fairly. You may simply want to mention that you are aware that others may try to use the leverage you have to take advantage of the person but that you have no intention of doing so.

Let them know you want to come to a fair arrangement that is beneficial to both parties. In some instances, however, you may need to use leverage to obtain items you need. It is also important to be aware of the most common forms of leverage that someone may try to use against you at some point in your bartering endeavors. Options–If multiple people are offering the same goods or services you have more power because you can easily go elsewhere.

Deadlines–People tend to be more willing to consider concessions as deadlines such as the end of the day approach. Emotions–Getting emotional may weaken your position if it is seen as desperation. However, it is possible to fake anger to get someone to meet a demand.

The clearest example of this is when a child throws a tantrum, however, adults have been known to use the same method with great effect. Momentum–This is applicable to both commitments and concessions. Every consecutive concession or commitment you get the other person to agree to the more likely they are to agree to the next.

Weakness–Illness, fatigue, and any other weakness (whether real or perceived) can be used to push negotiations. A person who is ill may be more desperate for a medical item than a person who wants it to prepare for something that may happen in the future. Be sure to hide any of your own weaknesses from those you barter with while looking for any they may have. Power–People in positions of power may use that power to exert additional influence on bartering sessions.

Be aware of this ploy and if the person uses their power to threaten those they trade with it may be best to avoid them whenever possible. Knowledge–The person with the most knowledge about the service or item being bartered for will have far more leverage than their opponent. Be sure to learn as much about whatever it is you are looking for so you will be able to barter from a place of knowledge and understanding rather than one of simple need or desire. Bulk–

Buying in bulk almost always allows the buyer to obtain the item for less. If you are able to barter on behalf of friends or neighbors you may be able to lower the overall price for everyone by allowing the person you are bartering with to have a guaranteed sale quickly rather than holding on to items they may not be able to sell for an extended period.

Law–If the items or services being bartered for are in any way illegal some parties will threaten to inform the authorities if they are not given what they want.