4. Always respond to offers – If someone makes you an offer, always respond as soon as possible. If you know for certain you like the trade, just accept. If you’re interested but want a little time to consider it, just tell them that. You never know what other deals they’re working on, and your deal could be pulled if they get something else done. If you don’t like the trade as proposed, at least you know who/what position on your team they’re interested in. Use that knowledge to send a counter offer if they have someone you want. If there’s nothing you’re interested in, at least send a formal trade rejection, it’s common courtesy and will more likely invite them to approach you again.
Also, remember you don’t have to limit yourself to the confines of your fantasy football website when it comes to negotiations. You can respond to or propose trades in person, by email or any other forms of communication. Often this is the best way to plant a seed or argue your case, and it also gives you wiggle room to propose “what if” scenarios, rather than officially having something pending that you might regret.
5. Know that all good trades come with risk – Ultimately, if you’re playing against worthy competitors, remember that you’ll rarely feel certain that you are getting the better side of the deal. The value is relative to your needs and your personal opinion of the players involved, so be comfortable it’s what you want in that regard. Don’t wait around for the deal of a lifetime, cause it’s not going to happen. (And, if it does, other team managers will call “collusion!”)
So put your best negotiating face on and trade your way into the playoffs! And feel free to Tweet me @waiverlady if you want my two cents on your offers.
