“Influence Without Authority” by Alan R. Cohen is a critical read for those seeking to use project manager influence in situations where they have no formal authority. And in doing so, elevate their project management practice and achieve greater success in project delivery.

This book explores how project managers can effectively influence stakeholders and team members, even without formal authority, to ensure project success.

In this review, we’ll explore how the concepts covered in the book relate to project management, the project landscape, and common areas of project underperformance or failure.

We’ll also consider how project soft skills like trust, communication, and emotional connection play a role in these concepts.

Understanding Influence Without Authority

The Concept of Influence

In “Influence Without Authority,” Cohen explains that influence is the ability to affect others’ actions, decisions, and thinking without relying on positional power.

For project managers, this means leading through persuasion, negotiation, and relationship-building rather than directives and commands.

Relevance to Project Management

In the project management landscape, influence is crucial. Project managers often work in matrix organizations where they do not have direct authority over all team members.

They need to align stakeholders, manage expectations, and drive project goals without formal power.

This book provides strategies to build influence, which is essential for project managers to navigate complex organizational structures and achieve project success.

Applying Project Manager Influence to Address Project Underperformance

Common Areas of Project Underperformance

Projects often fail or underperform due to poor communication, lack of stakeholder buy-in, and inadequate team collaboration.

These issues can stem from a lack of influence and authority on the part of the project manager. Cohen’s insights on influence can help address these challenges.

Building Trust and Communication

Trust is the foundation of influence. Project managers must build trust with their teams and stakeholders to influence effectively.

This involves transparent communication, consistency, and delivering on promises. By fostering an environment of trust, project managers can enhance collaboration and reduce resistance.

Emotional Connection and the Emotional Bank Account

Cohen introduces the concept of the “emotional bank account,” which is crucial for project managers.

This metaphor represents the trust and goodwill built up over time through positive interactions.

By making deposits into this emotional bank account through acts of kindness, listening, and support, project managers can draw on this goodwill when they need to influence others.

Strategies for Project Manager Influence Without Authority

Relationship Building

Cohen emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships. Project managers should invest time in understanding their team members’ motivations, strengths, and concerns.

Strong relationships provide a foundation for influence and collaboration.

Effective Negotiation

Negotiation is a key skill for project managers working without formal authority. Cohen provides techniques for negotiating win-win solutions, ensuring that all parties feel their needs are met.

This skill is vital for resolving conflicts and securing stakeholder buy-in.

Leveraging Networks

Those seeking project manager influence, should leverage their networks to gain support and resources. Cohen suggests identifying and cultivating relationships with key influencers within the organization.

By building a network of allies, project managers can amplify their influence and drive project success.

Key Takeaways for Project Managers

Trust Building: Establish and maintain trust through transparent communication and consistent actions.
Emotional Bank Account: Build goodwill through positive interactions to draw upon in times of need.
Relationship Building: Invest in understanding and supporting team members to strengthen influence.
Effective Negotiation: Develop negotiation skills to create win-win solutions and resolve conflicts.
Leveraging Networks: Cultivate relationships with key influencers to gain support and resources.

Summary of “Influence Without Authority”

“Influence Without Authority” by Alan R. Cohen is an invaluable resource for project managers. It provides practical strategies for building influence, essential for leading teams and managing stakeholders in complex project environments.

By focusing on trust, communication, and relationship-building, project managers can navigate challenges and drive project success.

Practical Reasons to Read

Enhanced Leadership: Learn to lead without relying on formal authority.
Improved Communication: Develop strategies for clear and effective communication.
Stronger Relationships: Build stronger relationships with team members and stakeholders.
Successful Project Outcomes: Address common pitfalls and enhance project success through influence.

Who Will Love the Book

Project managers interested in developing their soft skills.
Leaders looking to influence without formal authority.
Professionals seeking practical strategies for project success.

Who May Not Enjoy the Book

Readers solely focused on technical project management methodologies.
Those uninterested in soft skills and relationship-building aspects.

Conclusion

For project managers aiming to excel in leadership and project delivery, “Influence Without Authority” by Alan R. Cohen is a useful addition to their library.

Gain actionable insights on how to influence without formal power and enhance your project management practice.

Find the Book Here