Opening gambit
The negotiations (slowed to a stop) because of the salary issue.
bogged down
We read everything (precisely) before we signed the contract.
to the letter
Our team has the project (set aside) for now.
on the back burner
The junior salesperson was (in charge) during the meeting.
calling the shots
. After seven weeks of negotiations an agreement was (certain).
in the bag
I’m so annoyed with Susan! She (excessively controls) everything.
micromanages
We were told (confidentially) that the company was having financial problems.
off the record
The negotiating team worked very hard to (discuss and finalize) a contract with the new company.
hammer out
Coordinating the different schedules for this project is like (managing difficult people).
herding cats
After thirty hours of bargaining we were able to (make an agreement).
After the talks failed we were forced to (go back to the beginning).
go back to square one
John tried to (avoid responsibility) by blaming me for the mistake.
throw me under the bus
We worked very hard to (find a solution to) the problems with the computer supplier.
iron out
In the end we (rejected) the proposal that the company made.
turned thumbs down on
I can't take on any more. I already (have too many tasks).
have too much on my plate