How to avoid being seen as the blocker

Do you ever feel like you are the person in the room who has to say no to other people’s ideas?

Many finance leaders struggle to overcome the negative perception of being seen as the blocker in the board room. During an exciting conversation about a new lucrative idea, it is often the finance leader who needs to remind people of the significant costs involved and the unacceptable risk levels.

Being prepared to speak out is an essential part of your role but has the potential to damage your relationships and overall reputation.

It is important that you raise your concerns in an effective manner by:

1. Gaining the respect of your C-Suite peers throughout everything that you do;

2. Determining the best time to enter into difficult conversations;

3. Presenting your arguments in a clear and well-constructed manner;

4. Tailoring your approach based upon other people’s personality traits; and

5. Being prepared to back down when it makes sense to do so.

You should also consider your balance between challenging other people’s ideas versus helping to create value and deliver people’s strategic objectives.

Assess your skills

How comfortable are you at challenging other people’s ideas?

Do you approach difficult conversations in the best way?

What are other people’s perceptions of you?