Here's how you can positively influence your boss's decision-making using effective techniques.

1 Build Trust

Building trust with your boss is foundational to any attempt to influence their decision-making. Trust is earned through consistent, reliable actions and open, honest communication. Show that you're committed to the company's success and your boss's objectives. When you demonstrate that you understand and support their goals, your boss is more likely to take your suggestions seriously. Displaying empathy and actively listening to their concerns will reinforce your position as a trustworthy advisor.

2 Understand Goals

Understanding your boss's goals and priorities is crucial when trying to influence their decisions. By aligning your suggestions with their objectives, you make it easier for them to see the benefits of your proposal. Use open-ended questions, a technique from Motivational Interviewing, to encourage your boss to express their goals and challenges. This will not only provide you with valuable insight but will also show them that you're interested in their perspective and are working towards a common purpose.

3 Present Ideas

When presenting your ideas, do so with clarity and confidence. Use the principles of Motivational Interviewing by expressing empathy and supporting your boss's autonomy in the decision-making process. Phrase your suggestions in a way that shows you've considered their point of view and the overall impact on the team and company. Avoid confrontation; instead, use reflective listening to validate their feelings and concerns, which can help in gently guiding them towards your viewpoint.

5 Reflect Positivity

Maintaining a positive attitude is infectious and can greatly impact the mood and decisions of those around you, including your boss. Reflect positivity in your interactions, and use affirmations, a key component of Motivational Interviewing, to reinforce positive behaviors and decisions. This not only builds morale but also encourages a more open-minded approach to decision-making. Positivity should be genuine, as authenticity is key to effective influence.

6 Follow Up

Following up after discussions or decisions shows your commitment and keeps the lines of communication open. It provides an opportunity to revisit the conversation and reinforce your ideas. Use this time to ask for feedback, which can lead to valuable insights into your boss's thought process. Employing a Motivational Interviewing approach, you can explore any hesitations they may have and offer additional support or information to help them move forward with confidence.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?