Workplace Multiplier by Tola Akinsulire

April 11, 2025

Welcome to the Workplace Multiplier newsletter. Published Monday to Friday, equipping you to achieve your professional goals faster and without burnout or overwhelm by leveraging The Triple Win Method.

How to be disgustingly persuasive (without manipulation)

Howdy ,

Over the past two days, we've explored creating a safe space and reducing power distance in our communications.

Today, I'm delivering on my promise to show you how to achieve that perfect blend – saying what you need to say while giving others what they need to hear.

The Communication Sweet Spot

The most influential professionals master what I call the "What-We-Want Method" of communication. This approach seamlessly integrates both sides of our communication equation:

1.  What the other person needs to hear

2.  What you need to communicate

Here's how it works in practice:

The Three-Part Framework

Step 1: Start with what they need (Connection)

Begin by addressing their primary concern or interest. This isn't manipulation – it's empathy in action. You're acknowledging where they are before asking them to go where you need them to go.

Step 2: Deliver your message (Content)

Once you've established that connection, transition to what you need to communicate. Because you've created safety and reduced power distance, they're now ready to truly hear you.

Step 3: Close with what matters to them (Commitment)

End by reconnecting to their needs, showing how your message relates to what matters to them.

Real-World Application

This framework comes in very handy when I have to deal with not-so-fun communication at the workplace.

Let’s imagine a scenario where you have to request additional resourcing for a major project from senior management - something I know a thing or two.

Your email might go something like this.

Hello Sir,

I know delivering XX Project on time is your priority for expanding our budget this quarter.

After reviewing progress, we would benefit from:

- Two additional technical team members for 3 weeks

- $xx for developing models

These resources would ensure on-time delivery while reducing quality risks by 40%.

I've prepared an ROI analysis showing alignment with our strategic goals.

Thank you,

Project Manager

It doesn’t have to be long. It just has to hit the right notes.

Your Communication Challenge Today

Take one important message you need to deliver today and restructure it using the What-We-Want Method:

1.  Begin with addressing what matters to them

2.  Deliver your core message

3.  Close by reconnecting to their priorities

This simple framework works in emails, presentations, difficult conversations, and even casual workplace interactions.

Practice this approach consistently, and you'll find people becoming increasingly receptive to your ideas and requests – not because you've manipulated them, but because you've demonstrated you understand what matters to them.

As always, keep winning at work and in life.

Tola Akinsulire

Your Strategic Workplace Mentor

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Want to get in on some of the lessons I have picked up in my career? Get my eBook "21 Lessons I Learned in My Career - A Primer to Help You Become Better at Work". Get it here

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