Hi Reader,

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In most episodes of Gentle Power (YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts), we teach you how to negotiate better outcomes for yourself. More compensation, better job offers, smarter deals.

But what about when you’re the one paying?

In this week’s episode, we dive into a different side of negotiation: how to handle service providers like hairstylists, dentists, contractors, or property managers in a way that’s fair, collaborative, and leaves no resentment.

We’ve been on the receiving end of vague communication and surprise charges. And while we’re always rooting for the underdog, we also know that unclear expectations can lead to awkward interactions and resentful endings.

Here are a few takeaways from this week’s episode:

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✅ Lock it in upfront. Before work begins, get clarity on pricing. This may seem obvious, but so many of us make assumptions on the scope and price to avoid the awkwardness of asking. But remember, clarity upfront will help you avoid a more difficult conversation later when you need to dispute that surprisingly high bill, or if you’re a people pleaser, sucking it up.

For example, when a hairstylist gives you a price range and says it will depend on your hair length, you can send them a picture of your current hair length and ask for a more precise estimate.

✅ Have a reason ready. If being direct feels uncomfortable, anchor your request in a reason or even an excuse you convince yourself into. You could say, “It’s important for me to know the price upfront because this is a gift.” Or “I’m on a budget.” Or “I've been burned before.” When you kindly reference your reasoning, it becomes easier to speak up, both for yourself and to the other person.

✅ Be clear, not combative. Just like in job offer negotiations, these conversations go best when you’re clear but respectful. Cranking up the pressure or becoming overly aggressive will only make the other side defensive. Real negotiation power comes from calm, confident clarity.

✅ Avoid paying the resentment tax. When you don’t speak up, you might “let it slide,” but you’re often left with a bad taste in your mouth. That cost sometimes lingers longer than money ever will.

Tune into the episode for real-world examples and the exact language you can use in different situations.

Later in the episode, Alex also shares a simple meditation technique that helped him reconnect with old friends he hadn’t spoken to in years. It’s called metta, a loving-kindness practice that led him to text 10 friends from childhood out of the blue. Every one of them replied.

It’s a beautiful reminder that it doesn’t take much to open a door again.

🎧 Listen to the full episode: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts​

With love,

Gerta & Alex
​Co-founders, YourNegotiations.com

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