Chris Voss
Chris Voss is one of the world’s most renowned experts on negotiation, having built a career and reputation upon his proven techniques and teaching. Voss has spent the last two decades using his considerable experience in law enforcement and hostage negations to help people and organizations negotiate better. His best-selling book “Never Split The Difference” is exceptionally influential and highly sought-after, helping people better understand the ins-and-outs of the art and science of negotiation.
The crux of Voss’ negotiation style is his focus on collaboration and mutual gain rather than dominance and aggression. He believes that negotiation is not a battle of wills to grapple for power and advantage but rather a bridge of communication and cooperation to be used to build relationships and achieve desired outcomes. Contrary to traditional ideas of negotiation, Voss does not see the relationship between two parties in negotiation as adversarial, rather, he looks to the relationship as a source of strength and progress.
Voss brings a wealth of experience to the negotiating table, having served as the lead FBI international kidnapping negotiator and consulting with corporations worldwide on improving their negotiations. He has two decades of experience in hostage negotiation and was the commander of the FBI’s terrorist screening center, giving him insight and understanding of how people interact and how to get the best result in any situation.
The primary focal point of his book, “Never Split The Difference”, is how to navigate difficult negotiations while still finding balance. With chapters focusing on “calibrated questions”, “labeling” and “mirroring”, Voss outlines practical steps to help build rapport, gain trust, and effectively build relationships. Voss suggests that when the negotiators on both sides of the table feel heard, respected and understood, it is easier to find mutually beneficial outcomes. With a well-thought-out structure and clear language, Voss charts a concise route for anyone to get the outcomes they desire.
Voss’ influence extends beyond his books and presentations to his work as a coach, consultant, teacher and mentor. He is the CEO of The Black Swan Group, Ltd which consults to businesses and organizations worldwide to help them better understand how to use negotiation to find value. His personal mission is “to bring the world’s best negotiation strategies to everyday people, so they can expand their comfort zones and get better results.”
Chris Voss’s career has spanned two decades and three continents, providing opportunity to impact people and organizations worldwide. Through his books, presentations and consulting services, he has brought the power of negotiation to everyday people and companies alike, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to be successful in both small and large-scale negotiations. It is no wonder that Voss’ book “Never Split The Difference” has become one of the leading books on the subject and a must-read for anyone in search for better ways to negotiate.
