How to present ideas that get instant buy in (Without sounding pushy or apologetic)

If you’ve ever left a meeting thinking ‘Why didn’t I just say something?’, this is for you.

Whether you want to suggest a idea to your manager, or contribute your opinion in a group meeting (Or even to your clients), these 5 steps will help you present ideas that get instant buy in without sounding pushy or apologetic.

Step 1: Lead with why

Start by presenting the WHY.

Don’t start by saying: We should try X.

Start by saying: The reports have come in and numbers have dropped by 25%.

It starts by highlighting the problem and gives reason to the upcoming pitch, making it more likely to be taken seriously.

Step 2: Get consent

After highlighting the WHY, it can still be too jarring to jump into a hard suggestion like “I think we should do X”.

Instead, give those you’re talking to the sense of autonomy and safety by asking for consent before you share your advice.

Examples:

1. Would it be useful if I shared some thoughts?
2. How about I share the idea I’ve had about this?
3. Are you open to me sharing this new plan I drew up?

This is simply a formality, and they will almost always say yes. It just gives them the extra notice to be prepared for what you’ll say next 🙂

Step 3: Use language that is subjective

This softens your suggestion and makes it clear that it is your own personal view, rather than a blanket-statement truth that is superior to other people’s ideas.

Examples:

1. Based on my viewpoint…
2. From my experience…
3. Based on my understanding…

Step 4: Phrase your idea as a question

Science has shown that when it comes to persuasion, people hate feeling bossed around. So, they will automatically do the opposite of what is being asked, if their freedom feels threatened (Brehm, 1966). Phrasing your idea as a question reminds the other person that they have freedom to decide, which will reduce that opposing reaction!

Examples:

1. What if…?
2. Would you consider…?
3. Are you open to…?

Step 5: Invite the other person to contribute

This is especially relevant if you have chosen to present your idea as a statement, rather a than question.

Always end your suggestion with an open invite for the other person to contribute. This makes them feel included in the conversation, so that it stays collaborative, rather than become heated or defensive.

Examples:

1. What do you think?
2. What are your ideas?
3. Does that align with what you are thinking?

Once you go through all 5 steps in presenting your ideas, you will have the highest chance of getting your idea across and taken seriously!

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You’re welcome in advance 😛

Trang Nova