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In this episode, you'll learn how to win support for a tough proposal, avoid getting blindsided in meetings, use informal conversations to map your allies and blockers, and turn neutral teammates into advocates.

Timestamps: 

[00:00 ] Introduction

[01:04 ] A failed pitch story and key lesson

[02:18 ] The importance of having a playbook

[02:55 ] Why great ideas get shot down

[03:12 ] Stage 1: Test the waters

[04:40 ] How early insights shape your pitch

[05:30 ] Stage 2: Understand the numbers

[06:00 ] Identify veto players and the majority needed

[06:45 ] Plan around timing and meetings

[07:30 ] The power of loud voices in group settings

[08:10 ] Stage 3: Strengthen your supporters

[08:50 ] Ask for feedback, not support

[09:30 ] Involve people by including their suggestions

[09:50 ] Win over key skeptics

[10:20 ] Turning opponents into advocates

[10:50 ] Leverage respected voices in the group

[11:15 ] Why being heard matters more than being right

[11:35 ] Coaching for executive communication

[12:10 ] Why logic often loses to emotion

[12:50 ] How storytelling wins the room

[13:20 ] Stage 4: Engage the neutrals

[13:50 ] Connect your idea to their priorities

[14:15 ] Use win-win framing for middle-ground people

[14:40 ] Avoid turning neutrals into opponents

[15:00 ] Use social proof to tip the balance

[15:30 ] Stage 5: Presentation and decision

[16:20 ] Call out contributors by name

[16:45 ] Make it feel like the next logical step

[17:00 ] Keep the decision meeting short and smooth

[17:45 ] How to avoid meeting debates and delays

[18:00 ] Creating watercooler moments in remote work

[18:30 ] How to test ideas before remote meetings

[19:25 ] Follow-up strategy after remote conversations

Find more from Adam on LinkedIn and YouTube, and check out Adam's CTO coaching company Synova Tech.