Lead
Influence Without Authority
Moving shared work forward through evidence, relationships and useful contributions, without formal power.
What is Influence Without Authority?
Moving shared work forward through evidence, relationships and useful contributions, without formal power.
What you learn
Influence by making the decision easier for everyone involved.
When it helps
a problem crosses team lines, or you’re responsible without the authority to decide.
Use it at work
- Map the people around the decision, and what each needs.
- Ask about their concerns before you argue.
- Contribute something that solves their problem too.
- Start with one willing partner, and make the result visible.
Your output
For something you need from people you don’t manage, list what each of them needs. Contribute one thing that makes saying yes easier.
Watch for
Pushing your own view harder, or escalating before understanding others’ concerns.
Related practices
Sources
- Product Designer: individual contributor roles
- Collaboration Handbook
- Why Great Leaders Aim For Influence, Not Control
- Influence Without Authority
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