Here’s a powerful hack to enhance your persuasive skills using a simple Venn diagram.
Remember that the worst time to prepare for a persuasive conversation is when you’re in the conversation itself.
Instead, take the time to prepare beforehand.
The Venn Diagram Hack
Picture this: you’re about to pitch a new project to your boss.
You’re excited and hesitant because you know that your boss has a different set of priorities.
How do you bridge that gap?
Enter the Venn diagram hack.
1. Draw Two Circles: One for what you value and one for what your boss values.
2. Identify Common Ground: In the overlap, find the intersection of your and your boss’s values.
Putting It Into Practice
Meet Jack, my new client and a new bank Vice President eager to pitch a bold proposal to his executive team.
This pitch, presented by his predecessor, never took off. Even his peers told him it was a waste of time.
Clearly, the idea could drive significant growth, and through conversations, we quickly understood Jack’s predecessor’s mistake.
The proposal was unilateral and was never aligned with the company’s strategic goals or with the interests of key stakeholders.
A good proposal was dismissed due to not knowing how to prep! Ouch!
If this is you, instead of diving straight into the details of your plan and all the data and slides you prepared, you must take the time beforehand to research what matters most to each decision-maker.
I call this looking for intel.
Intel can be that the CFO prioritizes cost savings, the COO values operational efficiency, and the CEO wants to leave a legacy of growth when he retires in less than two years.
Armed with this knowledge, your goal is to customize your presentation to show how your proposal aligns with each key stakeholder’s needs, and objectives—highlighting cost savings for the CFO, streamlined processes for the COO, and potential market expansion for the CEO.
Why Does This Hack Work?
It works because it helps you craft the conversation from your boss’ and peers’ perspectives. It shows that you’ve done your homework and respect their priorities.
This approach doesn’t just make your pitch more persuasive—it also builds trust and demonstrates strategic thinking.
What If You Can’t 🙁 Find Common Ground?
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may find that there’s little or no overlap between your values and those of your boss or organization.
When this happens, it’s time to reconsider your proposal.
If what you value is not in alignment with what your organization values, it might be necessary to rethink your approach or even the project itself.
If the misalignment is significant and persistent, it might be time to consider whether you’re in the right place.
Take Action
Remember the Venn diagram hack next time you’re preparing for a big conversation.
Draw those circles, find the common ground, and lead with it.
You’ll find your pitches becoming much more compelling and successful.
You’ve got this!
With love, Mari Carmen
