Making a List An agenda lets you negotiate with confidence.

Entering a negotiation without a clear list of what you want islike driving cross-country without a map. To negotiate well, youmust first know your agenda. There is no better way than to writeit down.

Step back, and think about your deal. Brainstorm: List what youwant, and list what you don't want. Be specific. Then, groupand prioritize these items into categories--points you must have,those you'd really like to have and those that areinsignificant. Find a friend or colleague to be a sounding board,or consult a professional or other resource to learn what iscustomary in a transaction like yours.