How to Increase Your Influence at Work

https://hbr.org/2018/02/how-to-increase-your-influence-at-work

1. Build connections
2. Listen before you try to persuade
3. Mind your body language (and your tone)
4. Develop expertise
5. Map a strategy
6. Give people what they want
7. Principles to Remember

“Do:

• Cultivate personal connections with colleagues so they assume positive intent when you attempt to influence them.
• Make it clear to your colleagues that you value their opinions.
• Take steps to develop expertise by attending conferences or taking on a leadership role in a professional organization.

Don’t:

• Worry that your attempts to gain sway are manipulative. You’re being strategic.
• Slouch as you talk. Standing up straight with your shoulders back helps you come across as confident and commanding.
• Use “I” too much. In your quest for influence, talk about how your ideas will benefit the entire organization and how “we” will see value.”

Stephen