The four horsemen of power at the bargaining table

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to identify and discuss four major sources of power in negotiations. Findings The four sources of power are alternatives, information, status and social capital. Each of these sources of power can enhance a negotiator’s likelihood of obtaining their ideal outcome because power allows negotiators to be more confident and proactive, and it shields them from the bargaining tactics of their opponents. Practical implications The paper discusses how negotiators can utilize each source of power to improve their negotiation outcomes. Originality/value The paper provides a parsimonious definition of power in negotiations, identifies the four major sources of negotiator powers and highlights two pathways by which power affects negotiation outcomes.