Discover how to shape your boss's decisions positively using key supervisory skills and strategic communication.

Don't drown them in powerpoint; get to your point quickly and let their questions guide the presentation of your problem, solution or idea.

Here's how you can positively influence your boss's decision-making.

Navigating the waters of your workplace can be a challenge, especially when it comes to influencing the decisions of your boss. But with the right approach and understanding of supervisory skills, you can play a positive role in shaping outcomes that benefit both your team and the organization. It's about communication, insight, and timing. Let's dive into how you can become a subtle yet effective influence on your boss's decision-making process.

1 Build Trust

Establishing trust with your boss is the cornerstone of being able to influence their decisions. Trust is built over time through consistent, reliable work performance and by showing that your recommendations are well-thought-out and in the best interest of the team and company. Be transparent with your intentions and honest with your feedback. When your boss sees you as a dependable and sincere advisor, they're more likely to consider your perspective seriously.

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Scarlett Liu, MBA

CBAP | NPDP | PMP | AMAC
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Developing trust with one's boss is indeed crucial for influencing decisions and fostering a positive working relationship. Here are three article contributions from my unique perspective: "Building Trust with Your Boss Through Effective Communication Strategies" "Earning Trust as a Valuable Advisor: Key Strategies for Employees" "The Power of Authenticity in Supervisory Relationships"

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2 Understand Goals

To influence your boss effectively, you need to fully understand their goals and objectives. By aligning your suggestions with the broader company strategy and your boss's priorities, you can frame your ideas in a way that resonates with them. Take the time to discuss and clarify these goals to ensure that your input is relevant and helpful, thereby increasing the likelihood of your boss taking your advice.

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Scarlett Liu, MBA

CBAP | NPDP | PMP | AMAC
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By incorporating the SMART principles into your discussions and suggestions with your boss, you can ensure that your ideas are well-structured, actionable, and closely tied to their goals and the company's overall strategy. This approach will increase the chances of your boss taking your advice seriously and considering your input valuable.

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3 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is vital when presenting your ideas to your boss. It's not just about what you say, but how you say it. Be concise and articulate the benefits of your suggestion. Practice active listening during conversations to understand any concerns or objections they might have, and be prepared to address them. A well-presented argument can go a long way in swaying your boss's decision in your favor.

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Susan (Finerty) Zelmanski

Author "Master the Matrix," "Cross-Functional Influence." | Speaker | Consultant | Facilitator
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Don't drown them in powerpoint; get to your point quickly and let their questions guide the presentation of your problem, solution or idea.

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4 Offer Solutions

When you approach your boss with a problem, always have a solution ready. This shows initiative and positions you as a problem-solver rather than someone who only points out issues. Your solutions should be practical and backed by solid reasoning. By presenting solutions rather than problems, you help ease the decision-making process for your boss, making it easier for them to say yes.

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Dr. Tharindu Atapattu

Top 50 Global CEO Leadership Excellence Award Recipient Director | Chief Executive Officer Swisstek Aluminum Ltd & Lanka Swisstek Pvt Ltd Certified Leadership Coach (iLead) PhD| MBA| B.Sc.Eng| CMA(ANZ)| CGBA(ANZ)
(edited)
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When you present a solution or proposal, it's crucial to be prepared to answer potential questions clearly and confidently. Following are the question’s and potential answers 1. Why are you proposing it now? I am proposing it now because the current circumstances and data support the necessity and feasibility of this solution. 2. Why didn’t you do it earlier? We didn’t implement it earlier due to a combination of factors, including the lack of sufficient data, resources, or necessary conditions. 3. What if you don’t do it now? If we don’t act now, we risk missing a critical window of opportunity, which could lead to increased costs, inefficiencies, or negative impacts.

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5 Timing Matters

The timing of when you choose to present your ideas can be just as important as the ideas themselves. Look for opportune moments when your boss is more receptive to input, such as after a successful project or during strategic planning sessions. Avoid times of high stress or heavy workload. Good timing can mean the difference between being heard and being overlooked.

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6 Support Your Case

Whenever you present an idea to your boss, come prepared with evidence to support your case. This could be data, examples of best practices, or anecdotal evidence from within the organization. The more concrete your support, the more convincing your argument will be. Remember, your goal is to make it as easy as possible for your boss to say yes to your suggestions.

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Scarlett Liu, MBA

CBAP | NPDP | PMP | AMAC
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Absolutely! When presenting ideas to my boss, I will ensure to back them up with solid evidence such as data, examples of best practices, or anecdotal evidence from within the organization. This approach will make my arguments more convincing and increase the chances of getting approval for my suggestions. The goal is to make it easy for my boss to say yes by providing concrete support for my proposals.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Susan (Finerty) Zelmanski

Author "Master the Matrix," "Cross-Functional Influence." | Speaker | Consultant | Facilitator
Report contribution
Our research shows that when you are influencing 'up' there are three important practices to consider: (1) See and describe the problem and the solution as a leader sees it (not necessarily their opinion, but from their broader purview); (2) consistently demonstrate curiousity--leaders are more moved by people they believe are constantly seeking to understand things; (3) frame/position your idea or need in a way that is meaningful to them, not just to you. Really think about the words you use. They should reflect the leaders needs, interests and thinking style. In other words, don't start your dialogue with a bunch of analytics if the leader is a more strategic thinking--start big picture with them to get them engaged.

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Here's how you can positively influence your boss's decision-making.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Build Trust

2 Understand Goals

3 Communicate Clearly

4 Offer Solutions

5 Timing Matters

6 Support Your Case

7 Here’s what else to consider

Supervisory Skills

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Here's how you can positively influence your boss's decision-making.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Build Trust

2 Understand Goals

3 Communicate Clearly

4 Offer Solutions

5 Timing Matters

6 Support Your Case

7 Here’s what else to consider

Supervisory Skills

Rate this article

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