vsrivatsan

“Buy-in” is a leadership strategy. It can be defined as the steps taken and tools used to achieve objectives by developing an inspiring vision and utilizing the emotions of people. The concept brings in a radical change yet practical approach to: Creating a strategic story intended to project a positive future to the audience concerned. The strongest leaders are those who create a positive vision of the future.
“Buy-In” can also be thought of as a language which instills commitment and has a powerful impact on the thoughts and emotions of the listeners. This language will empower people to produce the results needed with greater ease, speed and effectiveness. Mark S Walton an award winning journalist provides the readers with a new perspective of “Buy-In”. His concept of using a storyline, the “big picture”, to depict a tool that fulfills their audience’s agenda, correlates to their situation in the organization and persuades them to believe and work towards the goal.
I agree with the author when he talks about the importance of the emotional factor involved in making decisions and how it impacts the work of the employees. When a promising and motivating future is projected, people seem to work better in that environment. This brings us to one of the most basic skills a leader should master: Communication. Powerful leadership communication can bring unprecedented buy-in throughout any organization.
The examples of individuals and organizations, like from Abraham Lincoln to Coca Cola, who have excelled at persuading people to do or buy, reiterates the necessity to develop the persuasive and stimulating communication skills that will guarantee their buy-in. However success can be achieved only by putting the “Buy-In” language into use, that is, exercise his strategies to design, target, and deliver stories that win the commitment of all who hear them.