Communication Skills for Persuasion and Influence
This communication skills course covers how to influence decisions and secure collaboration without formal power. You will learn tools for credibility, persuasion and stakeholder alignment across hierarchies and functions. Topics include relationship mapping, framing proposals and managing resistance constructively.
This course is available on demand face-to-face (one full day) or live online (two half-days). Contact [email protected] for dates and bookings.Â
Contact us for details
Course outline
Understanding influence dynamics
This module sets the foundations for influence in complex organisations.
- Power, credibility and trust
- Mapping formal and informal networks
- Influence styles and stakeholder preferences
- Defining shared interests and outcomes
Persuasive communication techniques
This module focuses on crafting messages that win agreement.
- Structuring logic, emotion and values
- Language patterns that build commitment
- Social proof and sponsor leverage
- Handling objections and pushback
Influence in matrix and cross-functional settings
This module addresses practical tactics when authority is distributed.
- Coalition building and ally strategy
- Micro-commitments and incremental wins
- Virtual and hybrid influencing
- Protecting relationships under pressure
Sustaining influence over time
This module builds credibility through delivery and follow-through.
- Trust “banking” and reliability signals
- Reputation risks and avoiding overreach
- Stakeholder cadence and communication hygiene
- Reviewing and adjusting your influence plan
Who should attend?
Professionals, project leaders and managers who must influence peers, senior leaders or external partners without direct authority. Ideal for cross-functional and partnership environments.
What you will learn
After this course you will be able to:
- Map the influence networks that shape decisions
- Align proposals to stakeholder interests and values
- Adapt your influence style to different contexts
- Manage resistance without escalation
- Build credibility through language and behaviour
- Maintain influence through consistent delivery