The Influence Agenda ― A Systematic Approach to Aligning Stakeholders in Times of Change

Organizations need to be able to change and adapt in order to stay competitive, but this cannot be achieved without the support of stakeholders. Written by an experienced project manager and expert trainer, The Influence Agenda sets out a highly practical and systematic framework for engaging, influencing and enlisting the support of key stakeholders. Featuring easy-to-use stakeholder management templates, 'here's how' checklists and 'advice from the professionals', this book sets out a way to understand who you need to influence, what tactics will work the best, and how to plan and execute your strategy. It includes powerful tools and processes that incorporate the psychology of influence, and grounds them in experience of managing projects and change.

After a PhD and a spell in academic research, Mike Clayton spent the first part of his professional career managing projects and integrating complex change for clients working at international consulting firm Deloitte. During that time he learned that success is largely down to four things: intelligent persistence, following a sound process, a well-selected set of tools and techniques, and the support of your stakeholders. Mike has spent much of the last twenty years developing and honing his tools for engaging and influencing people.

He spent a large amount of the second part of his career training people in just this, alongside other management, leadership, and personal effectiveness topics. Between 2002 and 2008, he founded two training businesses and continues to provide tailored training for selected clients. Nothing teaches the importance of The Influence Agenda like building and running a business.

Now in the third stage of his professional career, Mike spends most of his time writing, and speaking about personal effectiveness, project management, and effective communication at seminars and conferences. Now a best-selling author, The Influence Agenda is Mike's twelfth book to be published. He lives in Hampshire, England, with his wife and daughter. Mike's website is at www.mikeclayton.co.uk