In reality, it’s difficult to move forward without authority. Influence is a powerful tool that facilitates achieving objectives and promotes engagement. Gone is the time when teams deployed around a hierarchical authority; projects are now done by matrix teams comprised mainly of technical specialists.
Project heads no longer have the hierarchical authority to demand or decide. These days, the employees working on projects in teams report to bosses elsewhere in the organization. On paper, it works well, but in practice, that’s not always the case. This is where the leadership of influence comes into play.
Target audience
- Professionals, specialists, consultants and managers.
- Project managers or participants in project management.
- Anyone who as part of their work needs to advise, convince, or gain support for their ideas.
Advantages for the participants
- Ability to adopt a “mental posture” likely to change the interpersonal dynamic.
- Understanding of the difference between influence and manipulation, and having the courage to speak.
- Capacity to move beyond simple compromises.
- Mastering the art of initiating communication with closed individuals.
Advantages for the employer
- Stopping the endless blame game.
- Increased accountability and empowerment.
- Faster attainment of the targeted results.
- Shorter, more efficient meetings.
- Improved staff unity: people acting without expecting the credit.
Themes covered
- Understanding the logic of irrationals and influencing them.
- Intention sensors; how to bridge the gap between the impact you have and the impact you want.
- Manipulation and influence: two concepts not to be confused.
- Your credibility as your primary work tool.
- Reducing the repercussions of communication blind spots.
- Strategy for interaction and positioning to foster openness /receptiveness in closed people.
- Creating allies and being able to “read” a group.