the hidden art of influence every leader must master
leaders often ask me:-
“how do you drive results when others resist?”
in tech, negotiation, and leadership, facts alone don’t win.
influence does.
Tali Sharot’s “the influential mind” isn’t just a book - it’s a playbook for leaders who want to inspire action, close big deals, and drive innovation.
here’s how i have applied its principles to lead up to multi-billion-dollar negotiations and transform decision-making at scale:-
1?? emotions > logic
data is powerful - but emotion is unforgettable.
when pitching transformative tech solutions, i weave stories of impact:-
?? how it will simplify lives,
?? how it will accelerate growth,
?? how it will ignite change.
people buy into feelings, not just facts.
2?? give control, gain alignment
true influence doesn’t force - it empowers.
in high-stakes negotiations, i never present a single solution.
instead, i create a framework of options, so decision-makers feel ownership.
(pro tip: people fight for choices they believe are their own.)
3?? the optimism effect
fear stifles innovation. hope fuels it.
when introducing cutting-edge technologies to Fortune 100 CXOs, i highlight opportunities, not just risks:-
? the markets they’ll conquer,
?? the legacy they’ll create.
leaders act faster when they see a brighter tomorrow.
4?? show proof, shift beliefs
skepticism is natural.
i have closed deals by showcasing real-world case studies and social proof:-
"this is what your competitors are already doing. here's how they’re winning."
5?? trust is your ultimate currency
as a tech executive/entrepreneur, trust defines your influence.
whether with global CXOs or my own team, i:-
?? prioritize transparency,
?? demonstrate expertise,
?? and always deliver results.
influence isn’t manipulation - it’s empowerment.
your job as a leader is to guide people toward what’s best for them - even when they resist.
?? question for my network:-
how are you building influence in your field?
whether in tech, leadership, or everyday life, drop your insights below??
??(repost so that everyone can learn and follow Vini Kaul for tech, business, negotiation & persuasion, entrepreneurship, personal development)