Michael Elwan

In my experience, the real impact of any agreement lies not just in the initial conversation, but in the consistent actions that follow. Following up means staying engaged—checking in, reviewing progress, and ensuring that all parties remain aligned and committed. This continued communication fosters trust and accountability. Following through, on the other hand, is about delivering on your promises. It’s the tangible proof of your integrity and reliability. By maintaining regular contact, offering updates, and addressing any issues promptly, you demonstrate your commitment to the agreed outcomes. Simple gestures like thank-you notes, surveys, or reports not only show appreciation but also reinforce your dedication to the relationship.

Motivating strategically involves understanding and aligning with the diverse goals and values of different generations in the workplace. In my experience, each generation brings its own unique set of priorities—some may seek work-life balance, while others might prioritise opportunities for growth or making a positive impact on society. By tailoring incentives and motivation strategies to these varying aspirations, you can create a more engaged and productive workforce.

In my experience, it’s easy to fall into the trap of stereotyping, but true leadership comes from seeing beyond generational labels and appreciating each person as an individual. While understanding generational traits can be helpful, it’s essential to recognise that not everyone fits neatly into these categories. By valuing the diversity and uniqueness of each team member, you unlock their full potential and foster a more inclusive and harmonious work environment. Avoiding negative judgments or comments based on generational stereotypes—like labeling Baby Boomers as old-fashioned or Millennials as entitled—ensures that everyone feels respected and valued for their contributions.

Handling resistance and conflict is a critical step in effectively negotiating and persuading stakeholders. Resistance often stems from a place of concern or fear, while conflict can arise from clashing interests or goals. In my experience, the key to managing these challenges lies in acknowledging and respecting the other party’s perspective, even when it differs from your own. Assertive, respectful, and constructive communication is essential—this means being firm in your position while remaining open to dialogue. Active listening and empathy are powerful tools for diffusing tension, allowing you to truly understand the underlying concerns.

Establishing rapport and credibility is vital when negotiating and persuading stakeholders. In my experience, rapport—the connection and trust you build with stakeholders—lays the foundation for successful interactions. It’s about showing genuine respect, interest, and appreciation for their perspectives. At the same time, credibility—your perceived expertise, reliability, and honesty—reinforces their confidence in your leadership. To achieve both, it’s crucial to demonstrate competence and integrity through your words and actions. Positive body language, steady eye contact, and a confident yet warm tone of voice all contribute to building trust.

Establishing trust and communication is the bedrock of any successful partnership, particularly when navigating the complexities of sharing sensitive information, resources, and decision-making. In my experience, trust is built through transparency, respect, and honesty—qualities that must be consistently demonstrated from the outset. This means being open about intentions, clear about expectations, and reliable in all interactions. Equally crucial is effective communication, which involves using clear, consistent language, steering clear of jargon, and addressing concerns promptly and thoughtfully. Communication should not be viewed as a one-time effort during negotiations but as an ongoing commitment.