To influence your boss or colleagues, the other person must recognize your relevance. Obviously, it’s easier if our message is adapted! What about when the person to be influenced is your boss? Because of differences in power, relationship, and organizational context, the dynamics and approaches to take are different from those you would use with a colleague.

This article presents the main differences between influencing a colleague and influencing a boss or other superior. As you read, I invite you to identify a situation in which you used a strategy adapted to a boss with a colleague, or the opposite, as well as to note what you would do differently if the situation happened again.

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Here is an overview of the main differences and similarities in the ways of influencing a boss or colleague.

Here are the main differences between influencing a boss or a colleague:

1. Power Dynamics

Boss : There is an inherent power imbalance in the position. Be more tactful and respectful of their authority. Recognize the importance of hierarchy in your boss. Some are more open than others.

Colleague : In theory, you are on an equal hierarchical footing. This can allow for more direct and collegial communication. Get to know your colleagues and take your time to also understand the company’s culture and the issues.

It may be wise to present your ideas as suggestions or proposals rather than as requests. Focus on the result, even if it means letting the other person take ownership of the idea. Basically, the goal is to get things done and cultivate the relationship.

The important thing is that you know it, and then you still hit your target. If this ever happens, don’t tell others that it’s your idea! I know it would be better if it was more transparent, but at the same time, it’s not a question of ego. You will reap the fruits of your humility, as you will be rewarded with greater influence in your environment.

2. Views and priorities

Your boss and coworkers probably don’t have the same priorities.

Boss : Focus on high-level strategic concerns and how your ideas align with organizational goals. Avoid being too detailed while being concrete.

Colleague : You can be more operational here in your examples, and probably in the topic of influence.

If you want to influence operations and need to talk to your boss AND a colleague, start with the benefits of your high-level method and how it impacts goals, and keep the more operational portion to answer your colleague’s questions.

In any case, make an effort to deeply understand each other’s key goals, challenges, and priorities. While having integrity, align your influence efforts to support what interests them most, and they will be more receptive.

3. Long-term impacts

Boss : Being successful in influencing your boss can affect your career trajectory and organizational status.

Colleague : Put more emphasis on building lateral relationships and a collaborative work environment.

Here are some similarities in the approach between influencing your boss and a colleague

1. Decision-making authority

Your boss and your colleagues don’t have the same decision-making powers. In order to influence them, consider what they need to either decide or influence in turn.

If the person makes the final decision, then focus on giving them the information that is compelling to HER.

If she has to present it to a committee or others, give her arguments, or even better, an email or a document that she can adjust and transfer. Don’t give her more work, help her help you.

2. Time and feedback

Don’t be in a hurry and anticipate.

The number of times I saw that decisions were made in a monthly committee… Learn about the decision-making process, or the relational functioning in relation to the subject you want to influence. It’s better to plan ahead and be prepared!

3. Data and evidence

While adapting to each one, you will have to use data and have evidence.

Some will be more respectful of well-reasoned arguments, supported by facts, data and analysis. Create a logical case, based on evidence, for example. Be sure to use a real-world situation as an example. This will save decision-makers from having to make a great deal of imagination to visualize the impacts of your proposal.

And this can also be supplemented by instinctive opinions or feelings. The two can be combined very well. If you can build an emotional connection to your idea, it will make a bigger impression.

In conclusion

Always know how to adapt and don’t go too fast. Taking the time is always beneficial, especially if the topic is important to you.

Eventually, know when to let go. This will allow you to preserve the relationship and have other opportunities to exert your influence.

The key is to establish credibility over time as someone with good judgment worthy of being heard.

Develop your authentic influence with the 7Cs of Unique coaching by following the self-training “Influencing with authenticity”, here is the link.