Purpose: Map the full influence ecosystem of a stalled engagement and identify where targeted relationship investments will unlock the decision. Coalitions win deals that technical arguments cannot. Update this map after every significant stakeholder interaction.
Stakeholder Influence Registry
| Name & Role |
Disposition (Champion / Neutral / Skeptic / Blocker) |
Their primary concern |
Influence over whom |
Your relationship strength (1–5) |
Coalition target? (Y/N) |
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Influence Network Map (draw below)
Legend: ▲ = Blocker | ⬤ = Champion | ■ = Neutral | ◯ = Unknown |: = Formal reporting | - - = Informal influence
Coalition Building Strategy
Champion Activation
Champions are not enough if they are isolated. How will you activate your champions to influence the neutrals and engage the skeptics?
| Champion | Activation approach | Target they will influence | Timeline |
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Neutral Conversion
Neutrals become allies when their specific concern is addressed. For each neutral, identify their concern and the minimum viable response that converts them.
| Neutral | Their concern | Conversion approach | Owner |
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Skeptic / Blocker Strategy
Do not try to convert blockers directly because that escalates resistance. Work through trusted intermediaries. Map the path.
| Blocker | Root concern (technical / political / risk) | Intermediary who has their trust | Message for the intermediary to carry |
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Coalition Readiness Assessment
| Number of confirmed champions | |
| Number of converted neutrals | |
| Number of unresolved blockers | |
| Is the coalition strong enough to proceed to the decision meeting? | Yes / No: need _____ more |
| Estimated weeks to coalition readiness | |