It is hard not to notice how much the current economic climate has created change in organizational climate. We used to talk about empowerment, creating accountability and personal development. Now the talk is of cuts and controls, needing approval, and waiting for management decisions.

There are a lot of people out there who could be forging ahead in productive work. Instead they are busy waiting! Are you one of them?

I am not suggesting that you take action without approval. Nor can you make decisions on behalf of others more senior than you. But you can become better at influencing. You can influence anyone with whom you come in contact, whatever their rank or position: if you have the skill.

It helps if you start from a position of personal credibility based on your competence and the contribution you make. Polish your performance as a first step. Then look at the situation from the other person's point of view, and be respectful of that view. Think win win.

Gather all the facts you can, and think through all the possible outcomes and solutions that you can. People are influenced by others they find thoughtful and helpful. Your manager may be as stuck as you are and will welcome your ideas.

Keep the conversation safe. Pushing and persuading; coercion and criticism merely create defensiveness. They are not effective influencing skills, particularly if you try them up the line.

Accept that a good outcome of an influencing conversation may be to plant some ideas to which you can return later. Patience is a virtue!