There’s a reason why some people always seem to land the best deals, secure higher salaries, and turn every conversation in their favour—they know how to negotiate.

And here’s the truth: most people don’t.

A 2023 survey by CV-Library found that over 55% of UK workers have never negotiated their salary, even though those who do can earn £5,000 to £10,000 more per year. Over a 40-year career, that’s half a million pounds left on the table—just because people are afraid to ask.

But negotiation isn’t just about money. It’s about control, confidence, and influence—skills that impact everything from buying a home to securing a business deal to deciding who picks the next holiday destination.

And in a world where AI is automating jobs, costs are rising, and competition is fiercer than ever, negotiation is the one skill that will never go out of style.

In Business, You’re Either Negotiating—or Losing

Sir Richard Branson didn’t build the Virgin empire by accepting the first deal put in front of him. London’s multi-million-pound property moguls don’t secure the best investments without hard negotiation. And companies don’t survive in today’s economy without knowing how to get the best price, the best terms, and the best opportunities.

“Everything in life is a negotiation,” says Chris Voss, former FBI hostage negotiator and author of Never Split the Difference. “From the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed, you're negotiating—whether you realise it or not.”

Here’s why it matters:

- Salary negotiations – 70% of hiring managers expect candidates to negotiate, yet most don’t.

- Property deals – A 1% discount on a £500,000 home saves you £5,000 instantly.

- Business contracts – Strong negotiations mean better terms, higher profits, and long-term success.

If you’re not negotiating, you’re leaving money on the table.

Why Most People in the UK Avoid Negotiation

So why do so many people accept the first offer they’re given?

1. Fear of Being "Difficult" – British culture often discourages haggling, making people reluctant to negotiate.

2. Lack of Confidence – Many assume the other person holds all the power (spoiler: they usually don’t).

3. Lack of Knowledge – Schools don’t teach negotiation, yet it’s one of life’s most crucial skills.

According to a 2022 Totaljobs study, 57% of UK employees accept the first salary they’re offered, even though companies expect negotiations. In fact, hiring managers build negotiation room into their initial offers. That means those who accept straight away are effectively taking a pay cut.

Think about it: Would a CEO agree to a contract without negotiating? Of course not. So why should you?

Three Negotiation Tactics Everyone Needs to Know

If you want to get what you want in business, property, or even everyday life, you need to understand these three powerful negotiation techniques:

1. The Power of Silence – Whoever speaks first, loses. A 2019 study by the Journal of Applied Psychology found that pausing for 3-5 seconds after making an offer dramatically increases the chances of a better deal. Next time you negotiate, make your offer and wait—you’ll be surprised at what happens.

2. The “Anchoring” Effect – Always start high (or low, depending on your side). A classic Harvard Business School study found that the first number mentioned in a negotiation influences the final outcome by up to 30%.

3. The “Win-Win” Approach – The best negotiators don’t just demand—they understand what the other side values. Studies show that 92% of successful negotiations end with both parties feeling like they won something. That’s how you build long-term relationships while still getting the best deal.

Negotiation isn’t about being pushy or aggressive—it’s about being smart, prepared, and strategic.

Negotiation Is Everywhere (Not Just in Business)

You might think negotiation is just for business owners, estate agents, or lawyers. But in reality, you negotiate every single day.

- Buying a car? The dealership expects you to haggle—but most people don’t.

- Booking a hotel? Many hotels offer discounts if you simply ask (especially for longer stays).

- Choosing where to go for dinner? That’s a negotiation too (even if it’s just with your partner!).

At Luxerra Global, we negotiate on behalf of clients every day—on cars, property, luxury assets, and business investments. And I can tell you this: the best deals always go to the best negotiators.

The Challenge: Negotiate Something This Week

If you’re not negotiating, you’re paying too much, earning too little, and settling for less than you deserve.

Here’s my challenge to you: negotiate something this week.

- It could be a salary increase.

- It could be the price of something you’re buying.

- It could even be what to watch on TV tonight.

Because the more you practise negotiating, the more you win in life.

Your Victory, Our Mission.