Introduction

In today's intricate organizational landscapes, political savvy and the ability to influence stakeholders are indispensable competencies for leaders aiming to drive significant initiatives and achieve lasting impact. Navigating informal power structures, building strategic alliances, and effectively communicating across diverse interests are critical for transforming vision into reality. This comprehensive training course is meticulously designed to equip current and aspiring leaders with the essential frameworks and practical skills to master organizational dynamics and exert positive influence.

This 5-day intensive program will empower participants to cultivate a deep understanding of organizational politics, develop robust negotiation strategies, and enhance their persuasion skills to overcome resistance and build consensus. You will learn to identify key influencers, manage complex relationships, and strategically position yourself and your ideas for success. By mastering these critical political savvy and influence competencies, you will confidently navigate corporate complexities, accelerate your career trajectory, and drive transformational results for your organization.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Senior Leaders and Executives
• Department Heads and Managers
• Project and Program Managers
• Aspiring Leaders
• Sales and Marketing Leaders
• Human Resources Professionals
• Consultants
• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
• Anyone needing to influence decisions and drive change
• Professionals seeking to enhance their strategic impact

Objectives

• Understand the nature of organizational politics and its impact on leadership.
• Develop strategies for building strong, strategic relationships across the organization.
• Master advanced communication and persuasion techniques for influence.
• Learn to identify key stakeholders and their interests.
• Navigate complex organizational structures and informal power dynamics.
• Cultivate effective negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Enhance personal brand and credibility to increase influence.
• Drive initiatives and gain buy-in for strategic objectives.
• Create a personalized action plan for developing political savvy.

Module 1: Understanding Organizational Politics

• Defining organizational politics and its positive and negative aspects.
• Identifying different types of power and influence in organizations.
• Understanding formal and informal power structures.
• Analyzing organizational culture and its impact on political dynamics.
• Recognizing political behaviors and their consequences.

Module 2: Building Strategic Relationships

• Developing a stakeholder map to identify key influencers.
• Strategies for building rapport and trust with diverse individuals.
• Cultivating a strong professional network both internally and externally.
• The art of active listening and empathetic engagement.
• Leveraging relationships to gain support and overcome obstacles.

Module 3: Advanced Communication and Persuasion

• Mastering persuasive communication techniques for various audiences.
• Crafting compelling arguments and narratives.
• Understanding psychological principles of influence (e.g., reciprocity, scarcity).
• Adapting communication style to different political contexts.
• Delivering high-impact presentations and pitches.

Module 4: Negotiation and Conflict Resolution

• Understanding the principles of effective negotiation in politically charged situations.
• Strategies for preparing and executing successful negotiations.
• Navigating disagreements and managing conflict constructively.
• Mediating disputes and finding common ground.
• Building consensus and achieving win-win outcomes.

Module 5: Strategic Positioning and Personal Brand

• Defining and articulating your unique value proposition.
• Developing a strong personal brand aligned with your leadership aspirations.
• Managing perceptions and building credibility.
• Strategies for increasing visibility and recognition within the organization.
• Leveraging opportunities to showcase your expertise and contributions.

Module 6: Driving Initiatives and Gaining Buy-in

• Developing a strategic approach to championing new initiatives.
• Identifying potential resistance and proactively addressing concerns.
• Building coalitions and securing sponsorship for your projects.
• Communicating the benefits and value proposition of your proposals.
• Overcoming political roadblocks and navigating decision-making processes.

Module 7: Ethical Considerations and Long-Term Impact

• Understanding the ethical boundaries of political savvy.
• Maintaining integrity and authenticity while navigating organizational politics.
• The importance of transparency and fairness in influence.
• Building a reputation for ethical leadership and trustworthiness.
• Creating a personal action plan for sustained political savvy and positive impact.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.