Changing Organisations: A Beginner's Guide

I am 3 months in to a new role in a new organisation.  And one of the things that I've naturally been reflecting on a lot is how to become an effective influencer within the organisation.

The biggest stumbling blocks so far have been to do with knowing how to get things done.  Being recognised as a knowledgable expert with a valuable contribution to make does not automatically transfer to a new organisation no matter what salary and position you arrive with.

Obviously you need to earn respect through your actions rather than expecting to be automatically accorded the position of trusted counsellor - but how to start?

1. Pay attention to the power balance within the organisation - understand whose decisions count for most and work out who the conduits and power brokers are.  Avoid getting bogged down by Molasses Men, Head Treads or Sinkers.
2. Understand the internal politics within the senior management structure - who is likely to automatically oppose something purely because another individual is championing it?
3. Work out the personalities of key managers - in a systems theory way it is they who will dictate the culture of the organisation.
4. Understand the normative approach to getting 'the board' to discuss/approve something - overtly going about it a different way will thwart your progress.
5. Learn how to subvert or short-cut the formal processes in order to get concrete decisions made informally in corridors or outside of meetings.

I am going to be on the constant lookout for a foothold or a way in - sooner or later an opportunity will come along for me to prove myself.  Challenge Number 2.

Comments

[Mugurel Radulescu]

Well, why not try to become part of the team, first? Know your colleagues, your collaborators, chat with them - and foremost, offer to help!

Be proactive in meeting/knowing those in offices near to you, in going to the smokers' corner, or where the coffee is brewed and poured into the cups. You will get a lot of tips there. And with the support of the team you can find out whatever you want on the above.

By the way, the team's support may get you easier access to acknowledgements from the function heads...