Without doubt, the most important stakeholder that you have whenever it comes to influence – is you.
Think about it. When you’re completing your stakeholder map you map out all of the powerful people, all of the people that can have an impact. But, how often you put yourself on there?
Thinking of the two dimensions you’ve got agreement and relationship. The key part of relationship is trust. So, when you think about your influencing goal, do you trust yourself to achieve it? Have you got that degree of confidence that you will be able to do it? Will you be able to live up to the expectations of others and do what you say you’re going to do?
Equally, are you really in agreement? To what extent are you in agreement? Do you believe this is what should happen, or have you just been told to do it by your boss or another key stakeholder? Are you absolutely convinced that this is what your stakeholders should be agreeing to?
Now, these are some hard questions, but until you answer them truthfully and really deeply with your heart, how can you ever convince anybody else? How can you come across as compelling, as confident, as committed to the outcome, so that they will say yes. That they will agree with you, that they will trust you?
So begin any exercise on influence with influencing yourself.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]
