It is tempting to resort to subtle manipulation to win influence at work. Manipulating co-workers, however subtle it may be, is a mistake. It is better to gain power in the workplace by proving your merit and building goodwill with fellow employees as time progresses. The challenge lies in figuring out how to win influence in the workplace without manipulating others. Otherwise, you run the risk of being perceived as a manipulator who turns the workplace from a civil environment into one that is toxic. Here are five ways to gain respect from colleagues without resorting to manipulation.
- Expand your Knowledge Base
Become particularly knowledgeable about your line of work and the unique challenges that face your company, and it will be that much easier to earn others respect. Once you earn the respect of others, you will be able to influence them without manipulation. However, plenty of people in your office likely have in-depth knowledge of operations and the many challenges facing the organization. Go the extra distance by attempting to comprehend the pain points of those whose favor you hope to win. Instead of abusing this information, use it as a launching point to put your expertise and work ethic on display. Resolve co-workers’ issues with your unique approach, and you really will earn their respect and prove that much more influential at work.
- Simply ask for What You Desire
Most people are hesitant to ask for what they desire. You might be surprised by what you can get by simply asking for it. Fail to ask for what you want, and you probably won’t get it. Do not let your fear of appearing overly-forward or the fear of rejection stop you from asking for something to go your way. Merely making such an inquiry is a significant component of exerting influence in the workplace and making your desires known to decision-makers in the upper echelon of your workplace.
- Paint a Picture with Words
Communication is an invaluable tool in the workplace as well as in life in general. If you genuinely believe in what you are doing, saying and desire, be completely forthcoming with your co-workers. Show your hand, reveal how your leadership will improve the workplace, and those invisible walls between co-workers will gradually crumble down.
- Prove You are Worthy of Trust
If your co-workers do not trust you, you will not be able to influence them. The best way to establish a positive rapport in the workplace is to speak less and listen more. Ask questions, listen carefully to the responses of your co-workers, provide relevant responses that prove you listened, and you will have made considerable headway in earning the trust of your co-workers.
- Do not Wilt in the Face of Objections
It is nearly guaranteed objections will be raised after you propose your ideas. The bottom line is that people in the workplace and elsewhere are resistant to change. However, if you can overcome objections raised by colleagues through clarification, it will be much easier to convince co-workers to see things your way.
Robb Misso 