Influencing Critical Decisions

Mastering critical decision-making goes beyond data delivery—it’s about influencing perspectives, fostering alignment, and inspiring decisive action. This session introduces finance leaders to a versatile 5-step influence model grounded in behavioral science and marketing psychology. You’ll gain practical tools to engage stakeholders, handle resistance, and present ideas with clarity and conviction. Ideal for those leading change, proposing strategy, or seeking stakeholder buy-in, this module strengthens your ability to influence outcomes and lead with confidence.

Testimonials

It was the best training / webinar I've attended for some time, it was up to date, relevant, interesting, well put together and well delivered.

Best webinar I have been to in years and Oli delivered a very thought provoking session.

Really informative and relevant course.

Overview

What we Cover:

Principles of persuasion and influence
Universal 5-step sales methodology
Framing proposals for stakeholder alignment
Handling objections with confidence and credibility
Applying influence in non-sales roles (e.g., finance, operations, strategy)

The Challenges:

Gaining buy-in without formal authority
Communicating complex ideas in a compelling way
Aligning diverse stakeholders with competing priorities
Overcoming resistance to change

The Barriers:

Lack of clarity in messaging
Over-reliance on logic without emotional engagement
Fear of pushback or conflict
Discomfort “selling” ideas internally

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this module, participants will:

Understand and apply the 5-step influence framework
Tailor messaging to different stakeholder styles
Present recommendations with clarity and confidence
Navigate objections and build trust in high-stakes discussions

Business Benefits:

Faster stakeholder alignment
Greater impact in decision-making forums
Improved collaboration across functions
More persuasive communication and increased buy-in

Facilitator

Paul McKoen

Paul is an experienced CFO with a broad background across startups and large corporates, navigating diverse sectors, cultures, and ownership structures—including family-owned and private equity-backed businesses. He brings hands-on expertise in M&A, restructuring, and fundraising, having led multiple deals with both private equity and banks.

Prerequisites: No Prerequisite knowledge is required to be successful in this course

Advanced Preparation: No advanced preparation is required

Program Level: Basic

Delivery Method: Group Live

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