We all have a need, now and again, to influence one of our peers to our way of thinking – without the benefit of authority.  So how can we increase our success rate?
Frank L Acuff points out that Authority is the right granted  to you by your position and Power is the right granted to you by others, to influence and persuade them without fear or coercion.
In his book, “Shake hand with the Devil” he offers 7 strategies to influence our peers:
  1. Be clear on your desired outcomes.  Define the position you would like to achieve.  This should be ambitious, but should also be perceived as fair.  You should remove all the unnecessary drama and urgency.
  2. Identify and address the root causes of resistance.  Take time to understand the context of your peer.  Ask her to describe the obstacles to her helping you.  Work with her to find solutions.
  3. Use all of your interpersonal skill to build rapport.  Listen without interruption and understand her unique style and preferences.  Is she best in the morning, does she like detail, is she a driver, analytical, expressive or amiable.
  4. Find other sources of power.  Can you increase your expertise and technical ability?  It also helps to increase the strength of your network.  Develop links with the movers in your organisation.
  5. Cooperate in areas outside of the negotiation.  Ask how you can help and follow through.  Build a reputation for being helpful and cooperative throughout your organisation.  When you are helpful in day-to-day business this will take the heat out of your negotiation.
  6. Build a climate of trust.  When people trust you they will let you know what is on their minds, and it will predispose them to being helpful.
  7. Keep a positive mindset and prepare to wait.  Even the most uncooperative person may become an ally when they see you looking out for them.  But it can take time.

And remember:

While you do all these things, your associate may still tell you to go take a hike.

Or

They may go along with your idea in discussion but not follow through with action.

Each of these cases is the time for more waiting and more preparation.