The opinions of HR and top management on what is the best for their company often diverge. HR managers, therefore, need strong communication and presentation skills to be able to convince their superiors. Even the best people management strategy of all times will fail when top management says "no."
HRmorning.com recommends HR managers to prepare for negotiations with the company's leaders thoroughly. They should especially avoid the following three mistakes:
1. Neglecting the broader context
Don't expect that they will remember what you want to talk about even if you had previously agreed on the topic of your presentation. C-level managers will always assess your proposals with regard to the long-term goals of the company. The closer you can relate your presentation to the wider context of the company's development the better.
2. Excessive details
As already mentioned, top management is interested in how your proposals fit in the long-term corporate strategy. They don't need to know how you would like to implement every detail. They trust you to do it yourself.
3. Too much effort to succeed
When you come with an excessive desire to gain approval for your efforts, you will put yourself in a passive and subordinate role. Your presentation will not look as introducing an idea the entire company can benefit from, but as an attempt to appeal to them.
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