Influencing others, that is the ability to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone, is an extremely valuable skill.

Through the practice of influencing behaviours you can impact the results as well as building your own confidence and personal satisfaction.  Being able to affect change can feel good.

Making your Point

During group discussions, a proposal can be made and those present provide their input.  During these type of collaborative sessions participants will argue their perspectives together with supporting rational.

My own experience has led me to conclude the timing of input into a group discussion is absolutely linked to results.  The first to enter the frey, regardless of the strength of their proposal, rarely succeed with influencing  the group to adopt thier perspective.

Success is most often found by entering the discussion at the point where the other participants are most receptive.  This is never the beginning but beyond that the time to strike can vary.

Wisdom is often percieved to come from the silent participant who is active in tbe discussion only for a short period, concise and seems to have weighed others perspectives carefully.

Speaking on a topic infrequently during a meeting, not repeating your points (ever) are keys to success.  Say what you think, at the right moment and whatch others pick it up and carry the day for you.

The perception you send by timing your input when their is a lull and others are anxiously waiting for a good idea can make your thoughts seem more profound that they actually might be.

Hold your counsel, craft your thoughts to be clear, simple and short, wait until receptivity is high, then pounce.