Influencing Without Authority – Think Like a Negotiator

Leading without authority?

Then start preparing your influence like a negotiation.

When I coach clients in this situation—especially consultants or project leads—I ask:

 🔹 What happens if you don’t reach agreement?

 🔹 What’s your minimum acceptable outcome?

 🔹 What’s your ideal outcome?

And most importantly:

What’s the other party’s version of these questions?

Today, I coached someone in consulting who wants to work part-time.

From her side: better work-life balance.

From the company’s side? Fewer billable hours = less revenue.

The odds of being staffed full-time? Low.

But part-time? Suddenly, she might be the perfect fit for a client that only wants 60%.

Influence happens when you shift your perspective—not just your pitch.

If you want buy-in, think beyond your needs. Think like them.

#InfluenceWithoutAuthority #LeadershipTips #StrategicThinking