Book Review: Trump: The Art of the Deal – Lessons from a Master Negotiator

Few figures in modern history have commanded as much attention, controversy, and influence as Donald J. Trump. Whether one admires him or criticizes him, there is no denying that he understands negotiation, branding, and power. His 1987 book, Trump: The Art of the Deal, is not just an autobiography but a business strategy manual that reveals his mindset—how he structures deals, creates leverage, and uses publicity to his advantage.

Now, in 2025, as Trump serves his second, non-consecutive term as President of the United States, his strategies from The Art of the Deal remain highly relevant. His involvement in the Russia-Ukraine peace talks, his ability to dominate media narratives, and his approach to handling negotiations on the global stage all reflect the principles outlined in his book. The lessons he shares, whether applied in business or politics, provide valuable insights for anyone looking to gain an edge in negotiations and influence.

Thinking Big: The Mindset of a Winner

At the heart of Trump's philosophy is the idea that small thinking leads to small results. He argues that aiming high and taking bold risks is necessary to achieve extraordinary success. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an ability to pursue high-profile, high-stakes projects that others deemed too risky.

This mindset was evident in his 2024 presidential campaign, where he refused to accept political defeat after 2020. Instead of retreating, he remained a dominant force—holding massive rallies, challenging legal cases, and keeping his name in the media. By continuing to act like a political heavyweight, he positioned himself as the natural choice for a Republican resurgence. His campaign was built on big, bold promises, including rapid economic revitalization, strict immigration policies, and a promise to restore American global influence. His election victory over Vice President Kamala Harris proved that his strategy worked.

The lesson here is clear: Success requires thinking beyond immediate limitations. Playing it safe may lead to moderate success, but taking bold, calculated risks can lead to dominance.

Leverage is Everything: Controlling the Negotiation

Trump’s approach to negotiation is centered around leverage—understanding what the other side wants and using it to gain the upper hand. His ability to find leverage in high-stakes deals has been a recurring theme in both his business ventures and his presidency.

This skill has been particularly evident in his handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Trump has repeatedly claimed he could end the war in 24 hours, a bold statement that, whether entirely realistic or not, follows his deal-making playbook. By positioning himself as the only leader capable of bringing both sides to the table, he creates the perception of exclusive value—a classic Trump move. His approach has involved:

1. Offering Putin security guarantees in exchange for peace, giving Russia something they value.
2. Pressuring Ukraine to consider territorial compromises, leveraging the fact that U.S. military aid is not unlimited.
3. Using media influence and public pressure to shape the perception that he is the only one capable of brokering a deal.

In business, politics, or daily life, the same principle applies. If you enter a negotiation without leverage, you are powerless. If you don’t have leverage, create it.

The Power of Publicity: Controlling the Narrative

Trump has always understood that visibility equals power. His ability to stay in the media spotlight, whether through positive or negative press, has been a key part of his strategy for decades. He believes that even controversy can be useful, as long as people are talking about him.

This tactic has been evident throughout his return to the presidency in 2024. Even while facing legal battles and investigations, Trump never allowed negative headlines to define him. Instead of hiding from controversy, he embraced it—turning courtroom appearances into political rallies and using attacks from opponents to rally his base. This approach kept him in control of the narrative, ensuring that he remained the dominant force in Republican politics.

The lesson here is clear: If people know your name, you control the conversation. If you disappear, you become irrelevant. The ability to manage public perception is as valuable in business as it is in politics.

Negotiation is a Battle: Be Willing to Walk Away

One of the most important negotiation tactics Trump outlines in The Art of the Deal is the ability to walk away from a deal. The moment the other side believes you need the deal more than they do, you lose power.

This principle has played out in multiple high-profile situations, most notably in Trump’s negotiations with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. In 2019, Trump met with Kim in Hanoi to discuss North Korea’s denuclearization. Many expected Trump to desperately seek a deal, but when North Korea refused to offer meaningful concessions, Trump walked away from the table. His decision shocked the world but sent a clear message: he would not accept a weak deal just for the sake of optics.

A similar principle applied to Trump’s business dealings with banks in the 1990s. At various points, his casino empire was billions of dollars in debt. Instead of begging lenders for help, he turned the tables—convincing banks that if they didn’t work with him, they would lose more money than if they restructured his loans. By flipping the power dynamic, he forced creditors to negotiate on his terms.

The lesson here is critical: Always have the ability to walk away. The side that needs the deal less has the advantage.

Final Verdict: Should You Read This Book?

Trump: The Art of the Deal is more than a book about real estate—it is a manual for success in negotiation, business, and influence. The strategies Trump outlines have shaped his business empire, his presidency, and his ability to command global attention.

This book is essential reading for:

• Entrepreneurs who want to learn high-stakes negotiation tactics.
• Professionals who want to build personal branding and influence.
• Political enthusiasts who want to understand Trump’s mindset and strategy.

You don’t have to agree with Trump politically to learn from his ability to negotiate, persuade, and dominate the media. Understanding how he plays the game can help you win in your own way.

Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. Whether you’re in business, politics, or just looking to sharpen your negotiation skills, this book is filled with valuable, real-world strategies.

What Do You Think?

What’s your favorite negotiation tactic? Have you read The Art of the Deal? Let’s discuss in the comments below!