How can you adapt your persuasion style to different levels of authority?

1 Identify the level of authority

The first step to adapt your persuasion style is to identify the level of authority of the stakeholder you are trying to persuade. Authority refers to the formal power and responsibility that a stakeholder has over the program or its related aspects. For example, a senior executive may have high authority to approve budgets, set priorities, and allocate resources, while a technical expert may have low authority but high knowledge and expertise. Depending on the level of authority, you may need to use different approaches to gain their attention, trust, and support.

2 Adjust your communication style

The second step is to adjust your communication style to match the preferences and expectations of the stakeholder with a different level of authority. Communication style refers to how you deliver your message, such as the tone, language, format, and channel you use. For example, a high-authority stakeholder may prefer concise, direct, and formal communication, while a low-authority stakeholder may appreciate more details, explanations, and informal communication. You can adjust your communication style by using appropriate words, phrases, and expressions, choosing the right medium and frequency, and being respectful and courteous.

3 Frame your arguments

The third step is to frame your arguments in a way that appeals to the values, goals, and motivations of the stakeholder with a different level of authority. Framing refers to how you present your information, evidence, and reasoning to persuade someone to accept your point of view. For example, a high-authority stakeholder may be more interested in the strategic benefits, risks, and impacts of your program, while a low-authority stakeholder may be more concerned about the operational challenges, solutions, and outcomes. You can frame your arguments by highlighting the relevant aspects, using credible sources, and addressing potential objections.

4 Choose your strategies

The fourth step is to choose your strategies to influence the behavior and actions of the stakeholder with a different level of authority. Strategies refer to the tactics and methods you use to persuade someone to do something or agree with something. For example, a high-authority stakeholder may respond well to rational appeals, logical arguments, and clear expectations, while a low-authority stakeholder may appreciate emotional appeals, personal stories, and social proof. You can choose your strategies by understanding the personality, emotions, and social factors of the stakeholder, and by using appropriate incentives, rewards, and recognition.

6 Evaluate and adapt

The final step is to evaluate and adapt your persuasion style based on the results and feedback you get from the stakeholder with a different level of authority. Evaluation and adaptation refer to the process of assessing the effectiveness and appropriateness of your persuasion style, and making adjustments as needed. For example, a high-authority stakeholder may give you positive or negative feedback on your communication, arguments, and strategies, while a low-authority stakeholder may express satisfaction or dissatisfaction with your rapport and trust. You can evaluate and adapt your persuasion style by measuring the outcomes, asking for feedback, and learning from your experience.

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?