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In this episode, you'll learn how to win support for a tough proposal, avoid getting blindsided in meetings, use informal conversations to map your allies and blockers, and turn neutral teammates into advocates.
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction
[01:04] A failed pitch story and key lesson
[02:18] The importance of having a playbook
[02:55] Why great ideas get shot down
[03:12] Stage 1: Test the waters
[04:40] How early insights shape your pitch
[05:30] Stage 2: Understand the numbers
[06:00] Identify veto players and the majority needed
[06:45] Plan around timing and meetings
[07:30] The power of loud voices in group settings
[08:10] Stage 3: Strengthen your supporters
[08:50] Ask for feedback, not support
[09:30] Involve people by including their suggestions
[09:50] Win over key skeptics
[10:20] Turning opponents into advocates
[10:50] Leverage respected voices in the group
[11:15] Why being heard matters more than being right
[11:35] Coaching for executive communication
[12:10] Why logic often loses to emotion
[12:50] How storytelling wins the room
[13:20] Stage 4: Engage the neutrals
[13:50] Connect your idea to their priorities
[14:15] Use win-win framing for middle-ground people
[14:40] Avoid turning neutrals into opponents
[15:00] Use social proof to tip the balance
[15:30] Stage 5: Presentation and decision
[16:20] Call out contributors by name
[16:45] Make it feel like the next logical step
[17:00] Keep the decision meeting short and smooth
[17:45] How to avoid meeting debates and delays
[18:00] Creating watercooler moments in remote work
[18:30] How to test ideas before remote meetings
[19:25] Follow-up strategy after remote conversations
Find more from Adam on LinkedIn and YouTube, and check out Adam's CTO coaching company Synova Tech.
