Speaking to Authority Figures

So here are Five Tips to Remember when Speaking to Authority Figures:

1) Have a Plan

What are your goals for this encounter? Do you want to get your boss excited about a new idea? Are you trying to survive a speeding ticket? Knowing and preparing to get what you want enables you to be perceived as knowledgeable, confident, and collected. I heard a story once about a woman, driving near a police station, who was pulled over for a traffic violation. When the officer asked, “Do you know why I pulled you over,” her response was “to impress your buddies over there.” The police officer laughed, and the woman was let off without a ticket. I want to emphasize, I am not advocating for snark in the presence of a police officer. That being said, this woman—facing an undesirable situation—had a plan. Her preparedness allowed her to get what she wanted—avoiding a ticket. This same planning (not the same plan!) should be taken into any situation when speaking with authority figures. Your preparation and planning adds credibility to your ideas, proposals, when interviewing, or when you’re standing up for a decision. You are more likely to be appreciated, respected, and ultimately heard.