What do you do if your boss's decision-making during contract negotiations needs influencing?

One of the biggest value adds you can bring to a project is your perspective. Don't be afraid during the discussion of the goals and priorities of a project/negotiation to challenge those stated and the assumptions behind them. If you can help clarify objectives and outcomes on the front end, you not only help the final product achieve what's needed, but you also help ensure the appropriate KPIs can be installed to ensure success is maintained going-forward. The failure to flush out goals, priorities, and the assumptions behind them are one of the great hinderances to helping build and sustain a successful organization.

Mature Bosses involve expert team member in the process for negotiating contracts to keep scope, timeline, and cost containment real. It’s good to influence decision-making for successful contract negotiation to avoid resolving of Contract Dispute in legal battle at later stage. Top Leaders align contract terms with objectives through competitive peer-based analysis as artful negotiators. Clarity in resolution is must without giving in or compromising, when multiple decision makers are involved to overview @ helicopter level. It's vital to understand that every Contract is different. It is essential to develop customized conditions for effective negotiation for successful outcome, which is not subjective to technical compliance. MAK

Find why your boss is making certain decisions, understanding their perspective can help tailor your approach to influence them effectively. Present a reasoned and researched argument for why your approach/decision is a better option. Communicate your ideas and recommendations to your boss. Use persuasive language and be confident in your approach. Mark the benefits of your proposed approach, how it will benefit the organization Be open to your boss's feedback and concerns. Address any objections and be prepared to adjust your approach if necessary. If correct, add team members or stakeholders to support your arguments Changing someone's decision can take time, be patient and persist in your efforts to influence your boss's decisions.

From being in this position many times both as the subordinate and the boss. Planning ahead of time to understand what you are trying to achieve is paramount. Work out the scenarios that could play out and come up with a game plan. That way almost all decisions can be from a place of calm rational decision making. I would also recommend the “good cop bad cop” routine to influence the other side. Works wonders and allows the other side to feel like they have won

Negotiations require the lead negotiator to carefully assess all stakeholder's needs and wants, including your boss and all others who participate directly or indirectly on both sides of the table.

Credibility is key in influencing your boss’s decisions. To build credibility, consistently demonstrate your expertise, reliability, and integrity in your work. This could involve delivering high-quality results and being transparent in your communication. Take the time to understand your boss's priorities and decision-making style. Tailoring your approach to align with their preferences and demonstrating an understanding of their perspective can enhance your credibility and increase the likelihood of them being receptive to your influence. When they see you as a credible and trustworthy partner, they are more likely to value your input and take your recommendations into account during contract negotiations.

If you lack credibility, you won't be negotiating. A good negotiator constantly earns trust at all levels and ensures that everyone knows what is best to deliver.

While it's important to have "subject matter" insight that you bring that to every situation, I believe that it's integrity that enables you to be viewed as someone with credibility and, more importantly, someone that your boss - and anyone else for that matter - can depend on.

To effectively influence your boss in contract negotiations, credibility is paramount. Thoroughly understanding the contract details and implications of terms demonstrates your preparedness and commitment. Equip yourself with facts, figures, and a comprehensive grasp of the negotiation context. This preparation not only showcases your diligence but also positions you as a reliable advisor. When your boss perceives your expertise and awareness of nuances, they are more inclined to value your input and recommendations. Building credibility through knowledge and preparation enhances your ability to positively influence decisions and outcomes in negotiations.

This is always the case in any business function: If you see something going wrong from your point of view or if you disagree with something, you cannot just complain, but you have to present what you believe to be a better way. Understand however that your presentation needs to remain rooted in facts and your emotions may get in your way if you feel strongly about the topic (e.g., because you are passionate about the outcome). Since your boss has the ultimate decision on the matter you have to give them the choice but also step back once you have made your case.

If you need to influence your boss's decision-making during contract negotiations, start by gathering relevant information and data to support your position. Craft a persuasive argument that highlights the benefits of your proposed changes or suggestions. Present your case respectfully, highlighting how your suggestions align with the company's goals or objectives. Additionally, consider seeking support from colleagues or experts who can vouch for your ideas. Be prepared to listen to your boss's concerns and address them constructively. Ultimately, focus on finding common ground and reaching a mutually beneficial outcome.

Presenting alternatives is a great opportunity to bring value IF you also bring the needed insight to a RECOMMENDATION with those alternatives. Simply presenting alternatives or identifying challenges brings nothing of value if you don't bring the additional insight that promotes action steps.

When differing with your boss, it's crucial to not just critique but to propose viable alternatives. Adopt a problem-solving mindset by presenting clear, concise, and practical solutions that directly address concerns. Align these options with your boss's goals to demonstrate initiative and creative thinking. This approach showcases your ability to contribute constructively and can sway decision-making by offering viable pathways forward. It fosters a collaborative environment where constructive dialogue leads to innovative solutions beneficial for both parties.

I was thinking about this before reading it, so big support to this. Proper communication is a crucial key to achieving your personal and career goals.

This could be a discussion point all to itself! The ability to communicate EFFECTIVELY is the difference between someone who has knowledge and someone who is viewed as having wisdom. We are inundated with information and it takes tremendous skill, humility, and emotional intelligence to digest that information and translate into actionable guidance that motivates a change in behavior.

Never undermine your boss when trying to influence his/her decision making process. Understand that your boss is subject to other factors you (i) might not understand; (ii) might not be aware of; or (iii) all of the above. So when trying to influence your boss, know that you may have a very compelling argument but that might not be enough to influence your boss. Also sometimes C-suite executives need ammunition to bring to the Board or the CEO so they can influence their bosses in turn, so when trying to influence your boss know that you might need to influence your boss's boss.

When influencing your boss's decisions, effective communication is paramount. Articulate your points clearly and constructively, avoiding confrontation. Emphasize the benefits of your suggestions using positive language. Timing is critical; choose a moment when your boss is receptive and not preoccupied. A well-timed conversation enhances receptiveness and improves the likelihood of your message being understood and considered. By communicating thoughtfully and respectfully, you create a conducive atmosphere for productive discussions that can lead to positive outcomes.

an outstanding negotiator is more like an orchestra director, making sure all players deliver their best to achieve the goal.

It is important to know the diverse points of view of the work team, especially because each one has a different perception of the business. However, I believe that there are similarities on which we can focus when making decisions, without leaving aside the critical points. within the negotiation

Influencing your boss's decision can be bolstered by strength in numbers. When multiple team members share your perspective, consolidating viewpoints to present a united front can be impactful. This approach isn't about mutiny but demonstrating a consensus among knowledgeable colleagues. It adds weight to suggestions and increases the likelihood of your boss reconsidering their stance. By showcasing solidarity and aligning on key points, you leverage collective credibility and foster a collaborative atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued and decisions are informed by team consensus.

One Important point here that you need to show your boss a sincere willingness to be held responsible for your suggestions. ??

Firstly, I proactively gather business intelligence and market data to identify potential risks, opportunities, and competitive advantages associated with the contract. Using this information, I construct a compelling argument that highlights the strategic importance and potential value of the proposed contract. By framing the negotiation within the context of broader business objectives and market trends, I can demonstrate the potential impact on the company's bottom line and long-term success.