Influence
Most people think of influence as getting others to agree; we see influence as a two-way street. To get work done with and through others — up, down, and laterally, with or without authority — we need to be curious about different viewpoints, seek to understand the reasons for resistance, and be open to influence ourselves.
Changing behavior requires changing people’s MENTAL MODELS…
Debilitating Assumptions
- I need to convince you of my point of view
- To be effective, I must handle their objections
- They just don’t get it
Empowering Assumptions
- I can’t change your mind without first understanding your perspective
- To be effective I need to ask and listen
- Maybe I’m missing something
…which enables more effective ACTION…
Instead of using unproductive strategies like selling and manipulation, participants learn to influence by:
- Understanding what is behind resistance and actively look for ways to satisfy others’ interests
- Making persuasion a joint problem-solving activity
- Creating an attractive role for the other person by enlisting their help
- Remaining open to influence themselves
Complete the short assessment to explore common effective and ineffective approaches to influence
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…leading to better RESULTS
Utilizing the new tools and skills, participants:
- Navigate influence situations and conversations more efficiently
- Reach better, faster decisions with colleagues
- Gain alignment of stakeholders
- Achieve clarity on steps required to move forward on agreed solutions