Negotiation Evolved®: A Blistering Departure From “Legacy” Ideals in Negotiation, Business & Life in the 21st Century!

In the ever-changing landscape of business, negotiation often determines success or failure but with the publication of the updated EVOLVE OR BE SLAUGHTERED: Negotiation For the 21st Century, author Derrick Chevalier, Executive Vice President and Founder of Harrison-Chevalier (H-C, Inc.), has managed to write “A dynamic system for navigating complex interactions”, said one reviewer.

A Journey Rooted in Experience

Derrick Chevalier’s journey into the world of negotiation began in the late 1990s as a protégé of the highly respected global guru Dr. Chester Karrass, facilitating his “Effective Negotiating Seminar” around the world for nearly 15 years, before embarking on a quest to research, and create the first universally applicable negotiation framework designed for  complex, challenges “Traditional negotiation models were useful in their time and remain somewhat relevant, but they don’t fully account for the complexities of today’s global marketplace,” Chevalier explains. 

“In today’s interconnected world, individuals, businesses, and governments face challenges that demand evolved thinking and strategies.”

Derrick Chevalier: Best Negotiation Trainer in U.S. of 2026

At the Best of Best Review, we are excited to announce Derrick Chevalier as the recipient of the Best Negotiation Trainer in the U.S. of 2026 award. This prestigious recognition honors Derrick’s innovative contributions to the field of negotiation training, his forward-thinking methodologies, and his ability to help individuals and organizations navigate complex, high-stakes negotiations in today’s fast-paced, global environment.

The Birth of a New Approach

In 2008, after leaving Karrass and honoring a non-compete agreement, Chevalier dedicated himself to refining a new approach to negotiation. Over the next two years, he conducted extensive research, consulted with global experts in business strategy, conflict resolution, psychology, behavioral science, and studied the evolving demands of the 21st-century marketplace.

The result was the development of what is now called the  Comprehensive Negotiating Strategies Universal Framework (CNSUF®), which H-C, Inc. originally only offered to clients, who saw extraordinary bonafide ROI. A decade later CNSUF® is available worldwide through H-C, Inc. training, consulting, mediation services, and keynotes.

Expanding Reach and Impact

In 2015, Chevalier released the first edition of  EVOLVE OR BE SLAUGHTERED, the second edition followed in 2020, the book outlines the principles of CNSUF® and shares insights into how businesses and individuals can apply these strategies to improve their negotiation outcomes, but both of those editions were effectively only available to H-C, Inc. clients. EVOLVE’s  focus is not solely on theory; it also provides practical tools and methods that can be immediately applied in real-world situations. And  with the 2025 edition, updated and refined, EVOLVE is now widely available, and praised by readers and critics alike, Chevalier’s work has become “...a must-read…” for business professionals.

According to a review by Booksterr, EVOLVE OR BE SLAUGHTERED is “a commanding, richly layered negotiation manual that shatters conventional wisdom.” The review further notes that Chevalier’s comprehensive approach offers a more realistic view of negotiation than traditional 'win-win' strategies, stating that the book presents “a solid framework of six foundational tenets,” including predicting response, testing assumptions, influencing action, minimizing risk, maximizing results, and increasing knowledge.

The review emphasizes the intellectual ambition of the book, with Chevalier moving fluidly between theory and tactical implementation, and providing “practical, actionable guidance” not often found in negotiation literature. The book's framework, specifically the deadlock calculus section, stands out as an exceptional method for resolving impasses, an essential tool for any negotiator.

Adapting to Modern Needs

The importance of adapting negotiation strategies to the modern world is highlighted by the complexity of today’s business challenges. The interconnected nature of global economies and diverse cultural landscapes makes it crucial for negotiators to understand the psychological, emotional, and strategic factors that influence outcomes.

“The global economy is rapidly changing, and so are the dynamics of negotiation,” says Chevalier. “To succeed, negotiators must not only understand the tactical elements of a situation, but also the psychological and emotional factors that play a key role in decision-making as well.”

Real-World Applications

The impact of the CNSUF® framework is evident in the results achieved by businesses and professionals who have adopted it. Clients from diverse industries, including Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurs, have reported measurable improvements in their negotiation outcomes.

One client shared their experience: “The CNSUF® framework has completely transformed the way we approach business discussions. It has helped us manage even the most challenging negotiations with confidence.”

Another client highlighted the framework’s emphasis on decision-making under pressure, noting significant improvements in leadership communication and the ability to navigate high-stakes situations.

A Vision for the Future

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for advanced, adaptable negotiation strategies has never been greater. The challenges of the 21st century are evolving faster than ever before. Harrison-Chevalier’s mission to bring the Comprehensive Negotiating Strategies Universal Framework to the forefront of global negotiation has only just begun.

For business leaders, entrepreneurs, and negotiators who want to master the art of negotiation and ensure success in the new global economy, it is time to evolve. 

Learn more about Harrison-Chevalier and discover how CNSUF® can transform your approach to negotiation by scheduling a no cost, no obligation inquiry https://tidycal.com/dc3/15-minute-meeting-mnx2qyv or by  visiting Harrison-Chevalier's website.

Stay connected with Derrick Chevalier on LinkedIn, or  Instagram.