Last updated on Aug 28, 2024

Here's how you can influence decision-making with your boss in the IT services industry.

Navigating the terrain of corporate decision-making in IT services can be as complex as troubleshooting a network outage. But just as you would approach a technical problem with a clear strategy, influencing your boss's decisions requires a thoughtful approach. Whether you're advocating for a new project, more resources, or a different approach to a service issue, the key is to understand your boss's priorities and how your ideas align with them. By presenting your suggestions in terms of business benefits, demonstrating a clear understanding of potential risks and rewards, and showing how your proposal supports the company's broader goals, you can become a persuasive force in your organization.

1 Understand Goals

To influence your boss in the IT services sector, you must first understand their goals and objectives. Align your proposals with the company's strategic direction. Show how your ideas can help achieve these goals more efficiently or effectively. By demonstrating that you have a firm grasp on not only the technical aspects but also the business implications of your suggestions, you establish credibility and lay the groundwork for acceptance of your ideas.

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Dr. Klaudia Kleczkowska

Female Tech & Thought Leader | Founder @ Tech Growth Seeker | Former Athlete
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In my experience as an engineering leader, I found that it is important to invest in the quality of communication. You can have the best and most beneficial business ideas, but if the other key stakeholders do not understand the value they can add to the products, they will not receive support and will not be implemented. My best advice is to match the communication style, including vocabulary, and the level of technical expertise in the room. There may be none, which is fine - your job is to outline the pros and cons of the proposed solutions in a way that everyone can understand the value proposition.

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German Jr. Turno

Project Management Professional
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As we have transitioned to the cloud, I’ve remained proactive in the process and I’ve been instrumental in the change that has taken place as well as the innovation that has come as a result of the change. The first step I took was to Understand Goals after noticing that the company’s strategic priorities had begun to lean towards cloud solutions. I synchronized my recommendations with this direction, showing how cloud adoption can deliver benefits contributing toward improved efficiency, lower costs, and improved scalability. I built Credibility by sharing my expertise through project plans, schedules and cost-benefit analysis and impact to help ensure my boss had confidence in my work. I made sure I kept him informed of any issues.

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Imran Majumder

Sr. Strategic Technology Management Executive
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There is no right of wrong way of doing it but experience matters. Research data to support the request will carry values from historical & forecasting. Timing is very important & ROI is the key. Approach should be adjusted from the Supervisor's point of value regardless how valuable it is to get better traction. This will do the magic.

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Marty Steinetz

Sr. Level Executive currently growing and operating 2 Kilwins Franchise locations, with more to come.
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In my experience it depends on how mature the IT organization, the internal customer and leadership of both is. Many organizations have the goal identification skills of a dog with ADD - look, a squirrel. They simply chase the new shiny object/technology. I recommend your internal customer’s goals, your leaderships’ goals, and fit technology solutions in to solve problems. Go a step further and identify issues that need solving that haven’t been thought of yet.

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2 Build Credibility

Credibility is crucial when attempting to sway your boss's decisions. Ensure you're well-informed about the latest IT services trends and technologies. When you propose a solution or a new service offering, back it up with a solid understanding of how it works and its potential impact on the business. Your boss is more likely to listen to someone who has consistently demonstrated knowledge and competence in their field.

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3 Present Data

In IT services, data is king. When proposing changes or new projects, come armed with data to support your case. This might include performance metrics, cost-benefit analyses, or case studies from similar organizations. Presenting data not only shows that you've done your homework but also provides concrete evidence to back up your claims, making it easier for your boss to make an informed decision.

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4 Communicate Effectively

Effective communication is essential when trying to influence decision-making. Explain your ideas clearly and concisely, avoiding jargon that may confuse non-technical stakeholders. Tailor your message to your audience; for your boss, focus on how your proposal will benefit the business in terms of cost savings, revenue generation, or improved service delivery. A well-articulated argument is often the key to winning support.

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Richard Garrett Dews

Entrepreneur and leader, developer of careers, teams, GIS / SQL / Python expert, Commercial Pilot and Flight Instructor, Drone Pilot.
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Take a Dale Carnegie course. Learn to speak in the manner, subject matter, cadence, vocabulary and priorities as those from whom you seek inclusion, acceptance, consideration.

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5 Propose Solutions

Don't just bring problems to your boss's attention; offer solutions. In the IT services industry, showing initiative by presenting well-thought-out solutions to issues can set you apart. Be proactive in suggesting innovative ways to enhance services or streamline processes. By being solution-oriented, you demonstrate leadership and a forward-thinking mindset that can influence your boss's decisions in your favor.

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6 Follow Through

After you've presented your ideas and perhaps even gained tentative approval, it's important to follow through. In the IT services industry, results matter. If you're entrusted with implementing a new project or strategy, ensure its success by managing it effectively. Keeping your boss updated on progress and any challenges that arise shows that you're reliable and committed to seeing your ideas through to fruition.

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Here's how you can influence decision-making with your boss in the IT services industry.

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1 Understand Goals

2 Build Credibility

3 Present Data

4 Communicate Effectively

5 Propose Solutions

6 Follow Through

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