After reading the article “Everyone's an Amateur When It Comes to Negotiation”, I have found that I am one of the Amateurs mentioned in the content. In my latest job offer, I did not even ask for more after HR told me that my salary would be as same as a new graduate although I already had eight-month experience. She told me that the company would take the previous working experience to account if only I had at least one-year experience. That time I was afraid that they would see me as a racking and withdraw the offer so I just kept my mouth shut.
This article shows connections with our class lecture. People stumble when they need to ask for themselves. To be successful for the negotiation, ones need to prepare and understand their own interest. Everyone has his own style to negotiate. It might be hard to tell which style is the best for you. Then, let’s see what common mistakes of negotiation that you should avoid are.
The first one is that you make aggressive demand too early in the process. This may make employer perceive that you are not best fit. Be sure that you are qualified for that role and start negotiating in the right time. Another mistake is that you sell yourself short. It is like you put yourself to a low position making your boss or others brand you as weak and not achievable and that is not a good idea. Aiming too low is also mistake that people think it will help to get what they ask for. Actually this may lead you to a higher cost than you have ever thought.
In summary, negotiation skill is critical. Some of advices to help you succeed are being a good listener, being patient and trying to understand the other’s interest and exchanging some information. Being creative also plays an important role. You always have more alternatives than you think so try to find the best alternative to negotiated agreement.

How to Lead With Your Strengths
People who use their strengths at work tend to have better performance. By studying to lead with your strengths, you can get accomplishment in your highest potential level as well as be a successful example for other people. The article “How to Lead With Your Strengths” suggests several steps for anyone to use your strengths to become a great leader. This steps relate to our class lecture and supports the case we discussed in class.
To begin with, you need to understand what your strengths are. Strengths are defines as whatever making you feel successful, strong and unique such as talents, knowledge and skills.
Next step is to find your own strengths. The article mentions many ways to identify your strengths including strengths assessment test, past performance review, surveying yourself and asking others.
Then write strengths statement. Try to write what makes you strong in one sentence and make at least three areas of strength.
Use your strengths in the workplace. Think of activities that you can apply your strength and use it in real life.
Plan around your weaknesses. While you focus on what you do well, find necessary tools to help you manage your weakness such as online calendar and smart phone to help you stay organized and on time.
Create a strong leadership team. Select people who can support your strength and fill in the gap to be in your