You may getting good results or may be not because you are lacking the resources you need to deliver to full potential. In most organisations when you are seeking to gain additional resources you will have to make some sort of case.
So how can you increase your chances of success?
Clearly State The Problem
While it might appear that focusing on the opportunity is the best strategy, often it is highlighting the problem that has the biggest impact. The more you can relate the problem to specific consequences for the organisation, customers or service users the better.
Paint A Clear Picture Of The Difference Post Investment
What is going to be different once the investment has been made? The clearer the picture you can paint of how much better things are going to be the better your chances of success. Saying this is really easy. Achieving it in practice is significantly different. Influencing through words can be pretty tough.
Link It To Organisational Strategy
Some people seem to create wish lists that seem to get dusted down every time the planning cycle comes around. The more you can link your investment proposition to achievement of something strategically important to the organisation the better.
Clearly Identify The Benefits
Benefits and benefit realisation is becoming more and more important, particularly in these challenging economic times. Clearly define the benefits and how they will be realised.
Be Willing To Be Accountable For Delivery
Plenty of people are willing to take the glory of securing more resources. A lot less are willing to be accountable for delivery and follow through on what was promised. If you are one of the people who are willing to do this you will stand head and shoulders above others.
The Bottom Line: Requests for additional resources quite rightly require justification. Your role as a leader is to make the case, influence and re-assure the decision makers.
Duncan Brodie helps leaders deliver great results. He invites you sign up for his free audio e-course.
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.