Corporate leadership training
Leadership and Influence Training Course in Austria
Enable your leaders to gain support for the proposals that count: build credibility and rapport, understand influence dynamics, develop networks and alliances, and persuade assertively yet respectfully, beyond their own authority, through practical, hands-on training.
- In-person, virtual
or blended - Customised for
your organisation - Delivered worldwide,
including Austria - For leaders who need support
beyond their authority
Course overview
What Is Leadership Influence?
Leadership influence is the skill of moving others’ opinions and actions through credibility, rapport and persuasion instead of hierarchy. Drawing on human behaviour and motivation, the course covers the bases of power, organisational politics and stakeholder dynamics, and builds hands-on ability in networking, forming alliances, influencing those more senior and persuading people respectfully.
Dynamic workshops and experiential learning activities have participants analyse who holds sway over a decision, plan an alliance and rehearse a persuasive pitch, in situations leaders in Austria face.
For business executives, team leaders, entrepreneurs and public sector managers in Austria, the course explores the psychology of influence and persuasive communication, helping leaders build rapport with stakeholders and lead with confidence where they hold no formal authority.
Why it matters
Why Influence Matters in Austria
Leaders in Austria, in business and the public sector alike, often depend on stakeholders they do not manage. Those who build rapport, communicate persuasively and act with assertiveness and respect win the cooperation good ideas need.
Authority is not enough
Leaders count on peers, partners and senior colleagues who sit outside their line of authority.
Work crosses boundaries
Significant projects need cooperation across departments and stakeholders.
Ideas compete for attention
Sound proposals get lost unless someone takes the trouble to win support.
Alliances get things done
Leaders in Austria who invest in professional networks get things done together.
The Knowles leadership approach
From Insight to Impact
The cycle runs from earning a hearing to protecting the reputation that eases future requests, so participants see influence as something built patiently with assertiveness and respect, not a tactic for one meeting.
Influence in action
- 1. CredibilityWhy should they listen?
- 2. MapWho really decides?
- 3. ConnectWho do I need to know?
- 4. PersuadeWhat will convince them?
- 5. AllyWho will stand with us?
- 6. ReputationWill they trust me again?
Key benefits
Why Organisations Choose This Course
This programme helps your leaders and your organisation to:
Decisions Move Faster
Leaders win agreement without pushing every issue up the hierarchy.
Stronger Cooperation
Departments cooperate on shared priorities with less friction.
Wider Networks
Contacts built in person and online, across industries.
Proposals That Land
Ideas pitched around the goals of those who decide.
Fewer Stalled Initiatives
Stakeholders are aligned before decisions fall due.
Ethical Influence
Persuasion based on openness, empathy and respect, never on pressure or manipulation.
Have questions about this course?
Our team is happy to help. Send us a message and we will get back to you within one business day.
Course curriculum
A practical and structured learning journey.
Twelve units in three stages build from the dynamics of influence, to the networks and alliances that widen it, to the practice of persuasion at work.
- Unit 1
Power Bases
- Weigh formal authority against the personal influence people choose to give you.
- Examine how each of French and Raven’s bases of power shapes behaviour.
- Identify where your own influence currently comes from.
- Unit 2
Earning Credibility
- Establish credibility through competence, reliability and delivery.
- Keep your promises so stakeholders trust what you say.
- Re-establish credibility after a setback.
- Unit 3
Reading Politics
- Understand the real path decisions take in your organisation.
- Identify the opinion formers and gatekeepers around you.
- Handle conflicting interests without picking sides on reflex.
- Unit 4
Influence Mapping
- Rank stakeholders on a matrix of power and stance.
- Understand the needs and motivations behind each stance.
- Decide who to speak to first and who to approach later.
- Unit 5
Strategic Networking
- Build relationships in person and online before you need them.
- Use professional associations to reach beyond your own sector.
- Nurture contacts by sharing what is useful to them.
- Unit 6
Reciprocity
- Identify the currencies each colleague values most.
- Offer assistance and insight that builds goodwill.
- Strike balanced deals that serve both parties.
- Unit 7
Building Coalitions
- Find stakeholders who share your interest in the outcome.
- Engage sceptics early and address underlying concerns.
- Hold your coalition together until the final decision.
- Unit 8
Influencing Upwards
- Understand what drives and pressures your manager.
- Speak up assertively to senior people about ideas and worries.
- Disagree with those above you while keeping respect.
- Unit 9
Why People Say Yes
- Apply the persuasion principles described by Cialdini responsibly.
- Combine sound reasoning, evidence and emotion in one argument.
- Read nonverbal cues and tailor your approach to the person.
- Unit 10
Framing Proposals
- Link your idea to the priorities of the person deciding.
- Build a concise case that makes saying yes easy.
- Pick a good time and place for your request.
- Unit 11
Winning Agreement
- Treat objections as information and answer them calmly.
- Develop solutions that respect both sides’ interests.
- Turn a yes into specific actions and deadlines.
- Unit 12
Ethical Influence
- Separate respectful persuasion from manipulation.
- Make your intentions transparent and act with integrity.
- Protect trust for the long term, not the quick win.
Course agenda
Two-day course agenda.
A sample agenda showing how the two days run, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final agenda is agreed with you.
Welcome, objectives and introductions
Power bases
Morning break
Earning credibility
Lunch
Reading politics
Influence mapping
Afternoon break
Strategic networking
Day one reflection
Close
Recap and goals for the day
Reciprocity and exchange
Morning break
Building coalitions
Lunch
Influencing upwards
Why people say yes
Afternoon break
Framing proposals and winning agreement
Ethical influence and action planning
Close
Participant resources
What participants receive.
A practical set of resources to support learning during the course and application afterwards.
Course Workbook
Content, summaries and activities for every unit.
Templates and Worksheets
Ready-to-use tools to apply learning at work.
Action Plan Template
Turn learning into clear next steps.
Job Aids and Quick Guides
Key models, checklists and frameworks for daily use.
Digital Resources
Additional materials to revisit after the course.
Certificate of Completion
Recognition of the training completed.
Practical application
From theory to real workplace impact.
Participants work through realistic challenges: analysing who holds sway over a decision, assembling allies, pitching to senior leadership and addressing objections, the situations in which leaders in Austria must persuade rather than direct.
Power Mapping
Analyse who holds official and unofficial weight in a current decision.
Coalition Challenge
Assemble a majority behind a proposal within a set time.
Upward Pitch
Make your pitch to a senior leader and deal with tough questions.
Objection Role-Play
Address resistance and still protect the working relationship.
Who should attend
Designed for leaders who need others’ support.
It suits business executives, team leaders, entrepreneurs, public sector managers and others who need backing from people they do not manage, from peers and senior leaders to partners and clients, and who want to earn it with integrity.
- ExecutivesAlign the organisation behind strategy.
- Team LeadersGain resources and support for their teams.
- Project ManagersCoordinate work across functions without formal power.
- EntrepreneursEarn the commitment of partners, investors and clients.
- EducatorsLead change in their school by winning staff over.
- Recent GraduatesDevelop credibility and contacts from the start.
Course format and delivery
Flexible options to suit your organisation.
Choose the format and duration that fit your schedule and learning needs, whether at your workplace in Austria, online or a mix of both.
In-Person Training
Delivered at your organisation in Austria or at a suitable venue.
Virtual Training
Interactive, engaging live online delivery.
Blended Learning
A combination of in-person and virtual sessions.
Customised Training
Tailor case studies, organisation focus, delivery mode, modules and duration. Explore Customized Training
- Typical Duration2 Full Days9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also available as a 1-day, half-day, 90-minute or 60-minute session.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites and experience level.
No prior experience is required. The course suits new and experienced leaders alike and works well for mixed groups.
No formal prerequisites
Open to anyone who needs to win the support of others.
All experience levels
From recent graduates to senior executives.
Designed for mixed groups
Leaders from different functions learn from each other’s networks.
Ready to take part
Bring a proposal or decision you need support for.
Course framework
A structured approach to developing leaders.
Our framework follows a learning cycle: participants explore influence dynamics, try new approaches, reflect on the outcome and apply what works to a real decision in their organisation.
Practical and Actionable
Techniques and plans to put into practice right away.
Relevant to Austria
Designed around how organisations in Austria make decisions.
Influence with Integrity
Persuasion that is assertive yet respectful.
The influence cycle
- 1. LearnCore leadership principles
- 2. ExploreCase studies and discussion
- 3. PractiseRole-plays and simulations
- 4. ReflectSelf-assessment and journaling
- 5. ApplyReal-world projects
- 6. GrowMentoring and peer support
Key learning outcomes
From knowledge to lasting leadership impact.
By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:
- 01
Build credibility
Build the competence and reliability that earn attention.
- 02
Map influence
Analyse who holds sway over a decision and each person’s motives.
- 03
Grow your network
Grow a network in person and online, across sectors.
- 04
Form alliances
Align allies around a shared aim.
- 05
Persuade ethically
Present a case that earns true agreement through respect.
- 06
Influence upwards
Put proposals to senior leaders and challenge them with tact.
Influence depends less on how loudly you speak than on how much others trust what you say.
Example exercises and tools
Learn by doing.
Experiential exercises and planning tools are applied to a live proposal from each participant’s role, so the skills move directly into work.
Dynamic workshops and experiential learning activities recreate situations leaders in Austria encounter, from persuading a department head to support a proposal to aligning stakeholders across departments behind a shared plan. Participants practise persuasive speaking, assertive boundary-setting and mediation, and leave with an influence plan for a real decision of their own.
Network Audit
Assess your in-person and online network and the contacts it lacks.
Exchange Planner
Plan what each stakeholder would value from you in return.
Credibility Check
See how colleagues judge your competence and consistency.
Proposal Frame
Restructure a proposal around the goals of the person deciding.
Assessment
Assessment and learning progress.
A mix of steps before, during and after the programme keeps learning relevant and turns it into action.
Before the training
Share your goals and team context.
Agree the objectives and focus areas.
Confirm the format, timing and group.
During the training
Role-plays, simulations and practical exercises.
Feedback from experienced leaders as skills develop.
Group discussion and reflection.
After the training
A personal action plan for the workplace.
Self-assessment and guided journaling to track progress.
Ongoing learning through peers, mentors and the alumni network.
Workplace application
Relevant to your context.
Participants use the tools on real situations in organisations in Austria, from requesting budget to aligning several departments behind one project.
- Resource RequestsRequest resources persuasively.
- Cross-Team ProjectsGain colleagues’ cooperation.
- Senior BriefingsPresent ideas to senior people.
- Partner TalksReach deals partners stand by.
- New InitiativesWin backing before go-live.
- Professional NetworksConnect through professional associations.
Let’s discuss your requirements
Request a Customised Leadership Programme.
Talk to our team about how this course can be tailored for your organisation in Austria or other locations worldwide.
- Share your priorities
- Receive a tailored proposal
- Explore delivery options
Adapting for Austria
Adapting the programme for Austrian organisations.
We tailor the course so it reflects your people, your sector and the context you work in.
Local case studies
Examples and case studies drawn from leaders in Austria.
Cultural awareness
Content that respects cultural nuances and builds inclusive environments.
Community focus
Projects that address real local and community issues.
Industry and organisation focus
Examples, terminology and scenarios from your sector.
Delivery worldwide
Flexible delivery across Austria and worldwide.
We deliver this programme in Austria and in other locations worldwide, with flexible formats and options to suit your organisation.
- In-person
- Virtual
- Blended
At Your Workplace
In-house sessions at your office in Austria.
A Venue You Choose
Delivered at a training venue that suits your team.
Live Online
Interactive virtual sessions wherever your people are.
Across Countries
Programmes coordinated across several locations worldwide.
Client experiences
What our participants say.
Word-for-word feedback from participants at organisations in Singapore. Read all reviews
Yes, the communication strategies are practical enough to be used immediately in our everyday project work.
Yes, definitely. because it offers highly practical insights that help you navigate your role and better manage relationships within your team.
The course allowed me to identify the area where errors could occur and the various steps to identify and reduce the errors. Case studies were also provided to give a real-life experience instead of theoretical lessons.
Yes, but you must come with an open mind to self-reflect.
Yes, I definitely would. The program teaches you exactly how to approach closing deals and handle tough discussions with confidence.
Yes, because it really highlights how our daily business decisions directly impact the local community and the environment.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this course.
What is the main focus of this course?
Developing influence that does not depend on hierarchy: credibility, reading organisational politics, networking, alliances, influencing upwards and respectful persuasion, applied to situations leaders in Austria handle.
What topics does the course cover?
Twelve units in three stages: sources of influence (power bases, earning credibility, reading politics, influence mapping), networks and alliances (strategic networking, reciprocity, building coalitions, influencing upwards) and persuasion in practice (why people say yes, framing proposals, winning agreement and ethical influence).
Who should attend this course?
Business executives, team leaders, project managers, entrepreneurs, public sector managers, educators and recent graduates who need the support of people outside their authority.
Is the course suitable for new or first-time leaders?
Yes. Newer leaders gain credibility and confidence early, and experienced leaders learn to broaden their influence.
Is the course practical or theory-based?
Very hands-on. Dynamic workshops and experiential activities let participants analyse influence, assemble allies, pitch to senior leaders and address objections.
How long is the course?
The standard course runs over 2 full days, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It can also be delivered as a 1-day, half-day, 90-minute or 60-minute session.
Can the course be customised for our organisation?
Yes. We can adapt the content, examples and format to your goals, industry and team. See Customized Corporate Training for how we tailor programmes.
Can we use examples from our own industry?
Yes. We design and deliver our courses with subject matter experts in each field. Tell us about your industry, context and terminology when you enquire, and it will be taken into account.
Can we combine this course with other topics?
Yes. We can combine related topics into one programme or build a learning pathway across several sessions and levels.
Is this course available outside Austria?
Yes. We deliver this programme in other countries worldwide, in person or live online, and can coordinate it across several locations.
What delivery options are available?
In person at your workplace or a venue you choose, live online, or a blend of both.
What kind of exercises and activities are included?
Influence analysis, a majority-building task, a senior pitch, objection practice, a network assessment, an exchange plan, a credibility review and a proposal restructure, with feedback.
Do participants receive mentoring during the course?
Yes. Participants receive mentorship and constructive feedback from experienced leaders throughout the course.
Will participants build a professional network?
Yes. Participants connect with fellow participants, build mentoring relationships with facilitators and guest speakers, and can join an alumni network for ongoing learning.
How does the course support personal growth?
Through regular self-assessment and reflection, guided journaling to track progress and set goals, and techniques for mindfulness and stress management.
Is the course relevant to the Austrian context?
Yes. It is designed for leaders in Austria, from business executives to public sector managers, with exercises on persuasive communication, rapport with stakeholders and assertive influence.
Which cities in Austria can the course be delivered in?
We can deliver it in cities across Austria, including Vienna, Graz, Linz, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt and Villach, and other cities on request. We also offer a full range of leadership courses in Austria.
Can we download a course brochure?
Yes. Download our course brochure for an overview of our training programmes.
How do we request a proposal?
Share your goals and requirements through the enquiry form on this page. Our team replies within one business day with suggestions and a tailored proposal.
Who can we contact about this course?
Email [email protected], call +65 6714 6663 or use the enquiry form on this page. We reply within one business day.
Next steps
From enquiry to delivery.
A simple, transparent process from your first message to the training day.
- 1
Enquiry
Share your training needs and priorities.
- 2
Consultation
We discuss and refine the scope with you.
- 3
Proposal
Receive a tailored proposal with delivery options.
- 4
Confirm
Review, adjust and agree the details.
- 5
Delivery
We deliver the programme for your team.
Get in touch
Get in touch about this course.
Tell us about your team and goals, and we will recommend the right format for your organisation in Austria. Fill in the form or contact our team directly.
- Email us[email protected]
- Call us+65 6714 6663
- Quick replyWe get back to you within one business day.
- Ask before you commitTalk to our team about the right course and format for your needs.
This course is customisable
We can tailor the content, examples and activities to your team’s industry, goals and workplace context. Explore Customized Training
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