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Build Influence Without Being Seen as a Threat (Part 3 of 3): Optimism That Future-Casts a Joint Win

curiosity empathy influence optimism Oct 14, 2025

In Parts 1 and 2, we built trust with Strategic Empathy and Curiosity that Creates Trust. Now we complete the ECO Mindset Model with Optimism… not Pollyanna positivity, but a clear, credible future-cast that aligns what you want, what they need, and what the organization must achieve.

Why Optimism (and What It Is Not).

Optimism is the discipline of communicating a shared vision, better future, and the path to get there. It acknowledges real pressure and loss-pain, but refuses to leave anyone in that valley. Bring them up to a concrete “what good looks like” vision, so the conversation ends on a crescendo and forward motion.

Future-cast the Win (for Them, You, and the Business).

Once you’ve validated what’s at risk, ask: “If the end of Q4 were a 10/10, what would need to be true?” Then paint the joint outcome: what gets protected, what advances, what success metrics we’ll see. This shifts the room from defensiveness to determination.

Use “We/Us/Let’s” to Create Kinship.

Language shapes belonging. Replace “I/you” (which can create distance) with we/us/let’s to signal partnership and shared accountability. This builds what Dan Pink calls kinship… the sense that we’re on the same side, solving the same problem. For example, ‘We can absolutely get that done.’ or ‘Would it be out of the question if we spend 30-minutes reverse engineering how to make this happen?’

Put it All Together (E → C → O):

Empathy (E): “It seems like growth and pipeline are vital, and there's real pressure to deliver.”
Curiosity (C): “What would put those goals most at risk? What would make Q4 a 10/10 for you?”
Optimism (O): “Let’s partner to hit a 10% lift by Q4. Would it be unreasonable to pilot with Teams A and B to reduce exposure, then scale. I’m confident we can make this happen together.”

One-page Structure You Can Use Today:

Acknowledge the pressure of the OTHER (1–2 sentences).
Name what’s at risk and what’s desired (what they fear losing + the 10/10 outcome).
Future-cast the joint win (metrics, milestones, protections).
Outline the path (pilot → measure → scale).
Invite partnership with we/us/let’s and a clear next step.

When you close with a credible, shared vision (and a plan to reach it) you’re no longer a threat. You’re the trusted partner who helps everyone shine: you, your leader, and the organization. Here’s to your best quarter yet.

Now It’s Your Turn.

What’s one outcome you can confidently future-cast this quarter… and how will you frame it with we/us/let’s so it feels like a joint win? I’d love to hear from you!

The ECO Mindset Model Checklist (FREE Download).

Stop struggling to be heard. Learn the proven framework that helps leaders have maximum impact while building trust and partnership with their managers.

Get your FREE comprehensive checklist... everything you need to start building influence today.

What's Inside:
✓ Strategic empathy questions to ask before every meeting
✓ Sample conversation starters and language to use
✓ Active listening techniques that build trust
✓ The future casting formula for creating shared vision
✓ Common pitfalls to avoid (and how to course-correct)
✓ 5-minute pre-meeting prep guide

📥 Download Your Free Checklist Today!
https://www.sherylkline.com/build-influence-without-being-seen-as-a-threat

If you’re a leader looking to gain clarity on ‘what’s next’ ... or learn how to lead with greater confidence and influence, let’s have a confidential conversation.

Cheering you on always!
– Sheryl