“By the time I find out what’s happening, it’s already been decided—and I had no say.”
It’s not just annoying—it’s demoralising.
You hear about a change in direction. A shift in priorities. A decision that affects your team, your work, even your future.
And you weren’t consulted. You weren’t informed.
You were simply expected to adjust and carry on—gratefully.
No context. No influence. No voice.
What This Really Does to You
- You start feeling irrelevant, even when you’re delivering well.
- You lose energy, because decisions are just done to you, not with you.
- You stop speaking up, because it feels like the game has already been played.
Eventually, it makes you smaller. More reactive. Less strategic.
And you start wondering: What’s the point of trying to lead if I’m not even in the room?
Three Moves to Start Getting into the Room (or at Least Closer to It)
This is about visibility, proximity, and timing—not just competence.
1. Map the informal decision chain
Who knows what before it’s announced?
Whose opinion clearly shapes outcomes—even behind the scenes?
Start building relationships there. Don’t wait for formal invites.
2. Be seen thinking, not just doing
Don’t just deliver—add context, insight, framing:
“Here’s what I’m noticing.”
“One implication you might want to consider…”
You become someone with perspective. And people with perspective often get asked.
3. Speak to strategic goals, not just tasks
Want to be seen as someone worth including?
Stop talking only about execution—start aligning your input to their bigger picture.
Frame ideas with their outcomes in mind. That’s how you become part of the forward conversation.
When the Dynamic Starts to Shift
You won’t get into every room. But you’ll stop being blindsided.
And when decisions do come down, they’ll start to carry your fingerprints.
You’ll have more influence, fewer shocks, and far more energy—because you’re finally part of the picture, not just reacting to it.
And once they see your thinking adds value…they’ll want you in the room next time.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]
