Influencing Stakeholders at Work: Building Alignment Without Authority | Pravasi Bhushan

The Influencing Stakeholders at Work session was designed to help professionals strengthen their ability to collaborate, influence, and build alignment with stakeholders—especially in situations where formal authority is limited. The webinar combined interactive networking with a practical, insight-driven learning experience led by Pravasi Bhushan, Talent Leader and Leadership Coach, drawing from real-world leadership experiences and proven influence frameworks.

The session began with a warm networking segment facilitated by Shweta from GHRC, where participants introduced themselves, shared their professional backgrounds, and connected with peers. This was followed by a brief overview of the Global HR Community (GHRC) by Sinchana, highlighting GHRC’s mission, purpose, and its growth journey over the past two years.

During the core session, Pravasi focused on influencing stakeholders without relying on positional power, emphasizing collaboration, clarity, and strategic communication. He shared practical anecdotes from his leadership journey to make the concepts relatable and actionable.

A key highlight was the introduction of the Power–Interest Grid, helping participants understand how to manage stakeholders based on their influence and level of interest. Pravasi illustrated these strategies through real examples, including a successful LMS implementation at KP.AI, underscoring the importance of genuine engagement and transparent communication during change initiatives.

The session also explored Social Styles—Driver, Analytical, Amiable, and Expressive—using a simple 2x2 framework based on assertiveness and responsiveness. Pravasi emphasized that effective leaders adapt their communication approach to different stakeholder styles to build trust and influence.

In addition, participants learned practical communication and influence techniques, including reciprocity, commitment and consistency, social proof, and executive presence. Pravasi shared insights from his transition from an individual contributor to leadership roles, highlighting the importance of influencing peers, seniors, and cross-functional teams.

The webinar concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where participants discussed real workplace challenges such as managing conflicting priorities, handling group dynamics, influencing peers and leaders, and building executive presence. Pravasi’s experience-based responses resonated strongly with the audience.

The session closed on a high note, with participants appreciating the practical frameworks, relatable examples, and immediately applicable insights shared throughout the webinar.