How to lead without a Senior title in 3 simple steps

During my time as a Chief of Staff, I learnt that real influence doesn’t always depend on a title. Many times, I had to guide decisions without official power. I found that subtle things you do actually matter more than formal authority.

The tactics I am sharing today not only helped me build trust but also drive big decisions — even when I didn’t have the final say.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

1. Spotting Hidden Decision-Makers in the Room – Identify who truly influences decisions, even if they’re not the ones talking the most.
2. Turning Conflicts into Collaboration – Handle disagreements in a way that builds respect and moves everyone toward a better answer.
3. Claiming the Seat (and Respect) You Deserve – Show up confidently, take your place at the table, and signal that your voice matters.
   
   

Let’s dive in.

#1: Spotting Hidden Decision-Makers in the Room

Why this matters:

Not every decision maker is easy to spot. Some of the most influential people speak rarely - but when they do, it counts (more than the people who speak a lot). If you can spot them, you’ll know how to influence decisions.

What I learnt as a Chief of Staff:

In one of my first C-suite meetings, I noticed the person who actually made the final call spoke the least. While others rushed to fill every pause, they listened calmly. When they did share their thoughts, everyone leaned in and took their words seriously.

How to do this yourself:

• Watch who remains composed and quiet, but commands attention when they speak.
• Notice who others wait for before finalising decisions.
• Over time, you’ll understand who truly steers the conversation. With this insight, you can present your ideas so they resonate with them - which means you’ll have the greatest impact.

Bonus: Slow down your own responses. Try saying, “Let me think about this,” to show you’re thoughtful.

#2: Turning Conflicts into Collaboration

Why this matters:

In every team, people disagree. But when that happens, you can either be a problem-solver or just add fuel to the fire. In any situation, stick to being calm and respectful and you will get a better outcome. An angry mind never creates a great outcome.

What I learnt as a Chief of Staff:

I once saw a product strategy that would cost millions to the business. Instead of creating a public debate with the product leader in the meeting, I spoke to them individually. I acknowledged the good parts of their strategy first, then shared my concern backed up with user data. Together, we tweaked the plan — and saved our working relationship in the process.

How to do this yourself:

• Give feedback one-on-one instead of publicly.
• Use phrases like, “Let’s think this through together,” to show you want to find solutions as a team.
• In meetings, summarise different viewpoints neutrally. This shows you’re there to help, not to win an argument.

As you practice this, and show you can handle challenging situations and people calmly, people will trust you more to lead. And it’s a sign of you on a path to become a Senior leader.

#3: Claiming the Seat (and Respect) You Deserve

Why this matters:

When you make yourself invisible with subtle habits, it sends the message that you’re unsure of your place. By showing up confidently, you show you are someone worth listening to.

What I learnt as a Chief of Staff:

Early on, I’d shrink into the background during meetings, unsure if I belonged at the main table. When I decided to sit front and center, lay out my notes, and speak early, people took me more seriously. It was a small shift that changed how everyone responded to my ideas.

How to do this yourself:

• Sit at the main table, not off to the side.
• Spread out your materials so you look ready to contribute.
• Speak up early, even if it’s just a brief observation. Leading a discussion or summarising next steps also shows initiative.

Over time, these actions build a quiet but strong signal: You’re here, you have value, and your perspective matters.

You don’t need a big title to start making a real impact. By following these 3 tips, you can lead from wherever you are.

Remember, these strategies come from real experience, not theory. They’ve worked for me, and I believe they can work for you too. As you try them, notice how others respond. Over time, small changes add up to big shifts in how people see you — and how you see yourself.