Five of the best tips to help you promote a good idea
Recommending a change can be challenging. Workers who have done well under the old regime often resent change. Here are some tips to improve your chances of success when trying to introduce a new idea. Prepare your case well and seek support early.
1. Do your homework Test the water. Discuss your idea with some friends and colleagues. Consider all the pros and cons of the changes you are recommending. Try to predict problems in advance. Prepare a draft outline plan.
2. Keep your idea simple Write down your recommendation in one sentence. What are you trying to achieve? Focus on no more than three points in your proposed message. Edit heavily and remove clutter from your draft.
3. Seek support Discuss the subject with people who will be involved. Explain your concept. Before presenting your ideas formally seek allies from influential people.
4. Make a strong presentation Good clear, simple visual aids can save you much talking. (Keep your colour combinations strong using basic colours and bold print.) Before you start your presentation make sure all the audience can see your message. A good picture can save you a thousand words. Detail figures are best given as a handout.
5. Emphasise the benefits Be enthusiastic with your presentation. Explain why the change is needed. Emphasise the benefits and tell the stakeholders and the workers how they will be better off. Give them the opportunity to ask questions and give their opinions of the change.
Another Handful of Tips 