You’re struggling to get your boss to listen to your ideas. What can you do?

I've never had a boss that won't listen to an idea if I have a history of those ideas 1) Generating more revenue. 2) Eliminating unnecessary costs 3) Alleviating some form of stress for that boss. But one thing that is true, again and again, is that leadership means repeating yourself, even to your boss. If the idea is right, it will surface eventually, and you might just have to be the voice that drips that idea over and over again before it's recognized.

It's surely your boss's job to understand you. I hate "boss" in any way and that word in itself sends me a red flag! They should be communicating effectively with you and telling you what they want from you. They should be decisive and assertive but also empathetic. This is how I lead. I teach as I go in a clear and concise way, taking note that if someone "doesn't get it" then I have explained it poorly - at least the first time. Your "boss" is paid to be a communicator, effective leader, coach and support, mentor, and influencer - you are not!

If your customers are having issues with understanding the information you provide or someone provides, break it down into smaller paragraphs and try present a for example, very short stories illustrating your point. Pictures and drawing always help when the pertain to the information at hand. I present at least one picture with any story I write or some else does. If the source of the information has no pictures then is time to hit your file of pictures. I have been showing at least one picture for 18 years and I usually post three times a day 6 days a week. If you do the math you will come up with quite a number, longer than my age. Know who your reader or listener is. That way you can address the reader the correct way.

A key way to help a boss look at this, particularly in a non-marketing-first organisation, is to look at the wider sector. What is the competition doing? Why will making this adjustment help us to improve our offering by comparison? The challenge with this idea in particular is it's important to remember that the boss is, quite often, the most experienced team member, and this can lead to a fatalistic 'I've tried it all before' attitude. To overcome this, suggestions need to be bold but manageable - and primarily focusing on testing, data and ROI will help get those initial ideas approved.

It's always interesting to object against cannot be done. The power is within you. As employees we always have one or many managers to report to. The struggle is real. However, any long term issues that we come across can be easily resolved by putting a little effort to get things done. Understanding the nature of the organisation and your boss is extremely important to bring new things.

Be persistent. Use wisdom to discern the best time to approach him/her regarding the subject; preferable when he/she is in a good mood and calm. Also, try to make him/her see your point of view and how it can be of benefit to the company. That last part (being of benefit to the company) will help you be more persuasive, because in the end, he/she just wants to do what is best for the company. That's how they get paid.

1. Understand their perspective and take the time to understand your boss's priorities, goals, and concerns. 2. Discuss in a one-on-one meeting request a dedicated meeting with your boss to specifically discuss your ideas. This setting allows for a focused conversation where you can express your thoughts and address any concerns they might have. Remember, it is essential to remain professional, patient, and respectful throughout the process. Not all ideas will be immediately embraced, but by persistently and effectively communicating the value of your suggestions, you increase your chances of being heard and potentially implementing positive changes.