Influencing skills and powers of persuasion
In this training course you develop your own influencing style. You learn to persuade, motivate, negotiate and deal with resistance from win-win situations.
NRTO quality markFree cancellation up to four weeks before the start, so feel free to book now.
In brief. Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness is a 2-day classroom course. You can take it in Amsterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and Rotterdam, among other locations, or online, in a group of no more than 8 participants. The price is EUR 1250,- excl. VAT per participant, including course materials, lunch on location and a certificate of participation. For a team or department we also run this course in-company.
- Your own, powerful influencing style
- Win-win as the starting point
- Practical techniques for immediate impact
- Turning resistance into cooperation
- A personal action plan for immediate application
Your trainer: Mieke, Rob, Michaela or Christy 1.252 evaluations in total, average score 8,9. View the trainers
Do you want to persuade others without manipulating them? In the course Influencing skills and powers of persuasion you develop your own style. You work on negotiating, motivating and dealing with resistance. Always from a win-win perspective.
Description
In this course you work on your ability to influence others in a respectful and effective way. You explore your own influencing style and discover how to apply it deliberately in a variety of workplace situations.
You will work on themes such as negotiating, communicating powerfully, motivating and leading. The win-win approach is central throughout: you learn how to make an impact without manipulating. Topics covered include the interplay of push and pull energy, speaking with enthusiasm, applying unconscious techniques such as framing and priming, dealing with resistance and influencing attitudes.
The course is set up to be practical and interactive. You practise with realistic situations in a safe learning environment, so that you can apply what you have learned directly in your day-to-day work. At the end you draw up a personal action plan to embed your new skills.
Topics
During this course you work on a broad range of influencing skills. The following topics are covered:
- Insight into the game of influencing and consciously switching between your perspective and that of the other person
- Speaking in an enthusiastic and motivating way using storytelling, use of voice and non-verbal signals
- Recognising push and pull energy and using it purposefully
- Negotiating and dealing with differing interests
- Setting boundaries and giving feedback according to the principle of "hard on the content, soft on the relationship"
- Motivating at individual and group level
- Influencing through attitude change and building trust
- Unconscious influencing techniques such as framing and priming
- Dealing effectively with resistance and turning it into cooperation
- Drawing up a personal action plan to apply what you have learnt straight away
Result
After this course you influence others in a respectful way, without manipulation. You deploy various influencing skills consciously and effectively, and you know how to inspire, involve and connect with others. You have developed your own influencing style and apply it with confidence in conversations, negotiations and collaborations.
You will also switch smoothly between push and pull energy, deal constructively with resistance and steer conversations towards win-win outcomes. With your personal action plan in hand, you apply the skills you have learned directly in your work.
Target audience
This course is intended for specialists, experts, managers and (starting) internal and external advisers who want to strengthen their influencing skills. Do you recognise yourself in one or more of the following points?
You want to develop and strengthen your talent for influencing, you want to come across as more confident and decisive, and you want to exert influence more quickly and effectively in conversations, meetings and negotiations.
Do you work a lot with colleagues, clients or stakeholders with differing interests? Then this course will help you to achieve your goals with more impact and persuasiveness.
Teaching method
The course is practical and interactive: you learn by doing and experiencing. Beforehand, we map out your personal learning objectives during an intake, so that the programme matches your situation.
During the two course days you alternate theory with exercises, role plays and reflection on your own cases. You experiment with different influencing styles and receive direct feedback from the trainer and your fellow participants. With a maximum group size of eight participants, there is plenty of room for personal attention and a safe atmosphere in which to practise.
You finish the course with a personal action plan, which allows you to apply what you have learned in your work straight away.
Prior knowledge
No specific prior knowledge is required for this course. It is useful, however, if your work regularly involves collaborating, consulting or coordinating with others. That way you can link what you have learnt directly to situations you recognise yourself.
Practical information
- Number of days
- 2 days
- Course times
- from 10 am to 5 pm
- Teaching hours
- 12 hours
- Education level
- Suitable for all levels
- Preparation time
- None
- Included
- Course materials and lunch on site
- Certificate
- At the end of the course you will receive a certificate of attendance
- Cancel
- Free up to four weeks before the start (cancellation terms)
Language
The course is given in Dutch as standard. The trainer speaks English. English-language course materials can be used. If at least 3 participants register, the course can also be given entirely in English.
In-company
Would you like to organise this training for a whole group or several groups? This can be cost-effective. For example, we can tailor the content entirely to your organisation, and training a whole group is also cheaper.
Are you looking at large numbers of participants or a complete academy? That involves a great deal. Consider planning and communication, for example, or identifying and agreeing the objectives and content of the training. Or differences in level, feedback mechanisms and safeguarding. Fortunately, Learnit has extensive experience in this field (more than 25 years) and we are happy to help you through this process.
Request a quote More about Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness in-company
All start dates
2 training days. Confirmed dates first, then in order of date.
- Thu 29 Oct & Thu 12 Nov 2026Certain to go ahead The Hague · 10:00–17:00 Enrol
- Thu 12 & Thu 26 November 2026Certain to go ahead Utrecht · 10:00–17:00 · trainer SteffFree cancellation until 15 October Enrol
- Thu 3 & Thu 17 December 2026Certain to go ahead Zwolle · 10:00–17:00 · trainer ChristyFree cancellation until 5 November Enrol
- Thu 29 Oct & Thu 12 Nov 2026 Online · 10:00–17:00 Enrol
- Thu 12 & Thu 26 November 2026 Online · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 15 October Enrol
- Tue 22 Dec 2026 & Tue 5 Jan 2027 Utrecht · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 24 November Enrol
- Wed 13 & Wed 27 January 2027 Zwolle · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 16 December Enrol
- Wed 13 & Wed 27 January 2027 Groningen · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 16 December Enrol
- Mon 8 & Mon 22 February 2027 Amsterdam · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 11 January Enrol
- Tue 16 & Tue 30 March 2027 Eindhoven · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 16 February Enrol
- Tue 30 Mar & Tue 13 Apr 2027 Arnhem · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 2 March Enrol
- Thu 13 & Thu 27 May 2027 Utrecht · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 15 April Enrol
- Mon 2 & Mon 16 August 2027 Rotterdam · 10:00–17:00Free cancellation until 5 July Enrol
No suitable start date? Send us a date request, and we'll look at the options together.
This course by city
This course for your team?
Plan your own group on a date that suits you, at your office, at our premises or online. We tailor the content to your day-to-day work, and training a whole group is cheaper than individual bookings.
- Your date and location
- Tailored content
- Multiple groups or an academy are also possible
- More than 25 years' experience
The trainers for this course
Ratings from participants after completing their course, across all courses by this trainer.
Mieke
Trainer in conversation techniques and train-the-trainer 8,8 from 386 evaluations
Rob
Trainer in communication and leadership 8,6 from 346 evaluations
Michaela
Trainer communication and personal development 9,1 from 264 evaluations
Christy
trainer in communication and leadership 9,2 from 256 evaluationsWhat others say about this course
Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course: average 8.6 from 45 reviews
“Good to see that a catch-all term such as resistance and influencing can be unravelled so clearly, and is so powerful when applied.”
“The course was excellently tailored to our requirements. The preparation was good, which meant the course could focus specifically on the learning objectives. The quality of the course material is fine and the exercises fit in well. I am already reaping the benefits in practice of what I picked up during the course.”
“Instructive course. Examples from your own practice can be rehearsed in a role play under expert guidance.”
“A practical course in which theory does not remain theory, but is translated into practical tips and goals.”
“This course matched my requirements well. The trainer had a very good feel for the group and adapted to the wishes and requirements that arose within it. The calm manner of the facilitator created a sense of safety. That made it possible for me to open up more and really immerse myself in the material. The theory was explained quickly and clearly, after which we took plenty of time to practise and apply what we had learned directly to real-life situations. That is only possible if there is a sense of safety, and that was very pleasant.”
"J.P. Dijkers, University of Amsterdam (UvA) - "It was absolutely excellent! If I don't (yet) put what I've learned into practice properly, that's entirely down to me." - Rating: 8.4"
“A good opportunity to expand your influencing and persuasion toolset.”
"A wonderful, illuminating course on conversation techniques that has made me keen to really put it into practice."
"I took the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course at learnit. They were two intensive, very instructive and enjoyable days. I learned a lot through self-assessment, re-enacting situations from practice and practising with them. It is one of the few courses I have really learned a lot from and that I actually put into practice."
“The trainer taught clearly and well. I am very satisfied with the content of the course. I am already looking forward to the next course given by Learnit Training.”
“The Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course is a very practical, informative training course. Many topics are touched on that you can explore further at home. The trainer creates a very welcoming feeling and gives time and space for the stories that are alive among the participants. During the course you recognise many patterns in different contexts. After the course you know what you can do when you recognise patterns and which signals you can spot.”
"Everything was well organised and it was an instructive two days."
“Informative course with a motivated trainer. Definitely something you can use in practice!”
“A course delivered with pleasant ease and humour, and one you really benefit from because you are given plenty of tools that you can use straight away in practice. Highly recommended.”
“What you learn here is practical and, in fact, applicable every day.”
“In this course I was able to zoom in on my specific areas of attention. This was thanks to the thorough intake and the trainer's professional approach. Our group consisted of 3 people, so everyone had their turn. Alongside the theory, you practise using a situation you bring in yourself, in which you almost automatically come up against the reason why you signed up. I would recommend this two-day course, at a reasonable rate, to anyone who wants to work seriously on this subject.”
“You should follow this training if you want to be more conscious of the way in which people interact. Normally the way we communicate is more instinctual, but if you want to improve your innate skills you have to understand objectively what works and what doesn't.”
“Good course, good mix of theory and practice (30/70). There is openness to discussing current topics straight away. The right tools are provided to make a conversation run more smoothly.”
“Useful course with plenty of practical tips.”
“If you want to get to know yourself better and be ready for the role of consultant, this course is a real find!”
“I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone who wants to work on their influencing skills. The course material, the interaction, and practising with each other on camera and reviewing the footage definitely helped me with that. It can be applied in practice straight away.”
“A highly engaging course, with course material of a high standard and plenty of variety in the assignments and exercises. The course holds up a mirror to you, which can be confronting at times, but is very instructive. In short: a thoroughly enjoyable course to attend!”
"The course gives you a good insight into who you are and how you come across as a person in different situations. I found the theories covered a real eye-opener. The course provides useful tools that you can apply both at work and privately."
“Instructive course, which helps you gain insight into the process of influencing and how you can use this to improve your own communication and influencing skills. After the course you are well able to work on this consciously.”
“Do you want to improve the way you communicate with others, or learn to stand up for yourself more? Then this course is definitely one to take.”
“This course applies a certain amount of theory extensively to your own practice; how you act yourself and react to others. In a short space of time you reflect on how you function.”
"After the course you are more aware of what is happening around you and you learn to recognise other people's behaviour. You are better able to deal with the person in front of you and have more grip on situations, so as to prevent escalation."
“The course gives you new insights into how to get people moving, but it also points out personal matters (such as presenting to a group, holding business conversations) that you can improve yourself.”
"This training course opened up a whole new world for me. Particularly how, by choosing the right influencing style, I can achieve my goal in conversations with others."
“An effective course in which theory is tested directly in practice by means of concrete and relevant case studies.”
“The course was very instructive. Even though I have already attended various courses in which 'an eye for the process' was also central, many new aspects of interaction came up for me.”
“Enjoyable and varied course with an enthusiastic trainer. Skills covered briefly in theory, but above all quickly applicable in practice. Definitely worthwhile.”
“I found this training course extremely useful, partly because of the focused and professional approach.”
“Enjoyable course that addresses the participant's personal needs.”
“The level was well tailored to the individual. We received plenty of attention. Individual responses to the topics we raised were also sound and to the point. The pace was easy to follow and, in my view, the course was professionally led.”
“The course and the course material offer realistic tools in the search for support in persuading and influencing. The material and examples are very easy to apply in your daily work.”
“Learnit Training has many worthwhile courses in the field of communication. "Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness" is certainly one of them. In the course, the theory is translated straight into practice. Because you get to work on exercises yourself right away, the theory comes to life and you really notice what matters in influencing skills. I have now seen what I can improve in my influencing skills. After the course you have enough input to keep on practising.”
“Excellent trainer, really takes you through the theory. A clear explanation of the theory and then straight on to practising. That is exactly the way you learn to put it into practice. Very useful, very instructive and it makes you take a good look at yourself again.”
“A very good course, it fits my learning objectives perfectly. The trainer was very personable and pleasant.”
"This course ties in very well with everyday practice!"
“Good course for refreshing your communication skills and attitude. Nice to work with a camera so that you see yourself back. The small group works well.”
“An engaging course that can be of great use in communicating with others. We had a very professional trainer. Personal, skilled, flexible, attentive.”
“An inspiring course.”
“In-depth for both managers and employees. Applicable on all fronts in the work situation to achieve your goals.”
“Good support for self-reflection.”
“Good course, good balance between theory and practice. Concrete tools to apply.”
“An instructive course with a lot of interaction and plenty of room for personal guidance! The theory tied in well with the case study and the role plays, which was very pleasant. There was more practice than theory, so attention never wandered and the two days flew by. Learnit Training is a pleasant and professional organisation that pays close attention to communicating in good time.”
“In this course you learn above all by doing. As you go along, you get a picture of your personal strengths and points for attention and you get to grips with the tools. Seeing yourself back on video and receiving and giving feedback is also very instructive. A learning experience that stays with you!”
"Excellent course. The course material is clear and works well as a reference. The trainer was highly knowledgeable and involved. I learned many techniques that I can apply in practice. I also thought the intake conversation beforehand showed professionalism. Attention to the individual so that the course could be tailored as much as possible to individual needs. I think the small group setup is a huge advantage. I saw all of my learning objectives reflected in the course."
“I really would recommend this course, because it applies both at work and at home. Lots of practising together (role plays) and practical tools. It gave me insight into where my strengths and weaknesses lie, and how to respond to them. I see it as an investment in myself that also benefits the people around me. A sort of 'Communication for advanced learners'. If you are in two minds, I would say do it!”
Training formats
Classroom
2 days€ 1250,-- Pleasant venue with a good trainer
- Small groups
- Inspiring and motivating
In-company
Bespoke trainingOn request- 100% for your group
- Bespoke training
- At your place or ours
Workshop
Up to 4 hours for groupsOn request- Suitable for events
- Interactive and inspiring
- Large groups too
Private training
At our place or yoursOn request- 100% just for you
- Achieve a lot in little time
- Whenever you want
Frequently asked questions
Can I cancel free of charge?
Yes. Up to four weeks before the first day of the course you can cancel free of charge, without giving a reason. You then receive a credit note or, if you have already paid, a refund. If you cancel later, you pay part of the course fee: 25% between four and two weeks before the start, 75% in the two weeks before it and 100% in the final week. Moving to another start date is free of charge up to two weeks before the start, after that 50%. Sending a colleague in your place is always possible. Read the cancellation terms.
Who is the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course suitable for?
Which topics are covered in the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course?
Is prior knowledge required for the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course?
What is the group size and delivery format of the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course?
Do you receive a certificate after the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course?
What is the difference between this course and a course in assertiveness or negotiation?
How quickly can I apply the influencing techniques from this course in my day-to-day work?
What makes this course different from an online course or a book on influencing, such as Cialdini?
Does this course also work if I do not hold a formal management position but still need to get people on board?
How does 'influencing from a win-win perspective' relate to more directive persuasion techniques? Does this course also teach you how to stand your ground?
What do you learn in this course about unconscious influencing such as framing and priming, and isn't that simply manipulation?
How much does the Influencing Skills and Persuasiveness course cost and how long does it take?
You can find the current price at the top right of this course page, along with the schedule, location and delivery format. For in-company or bespoke courses we are happy to provide a quotation on request.
Confirmed: Thu 29 Oct & Thu 12 Nov 2026 in The Hague, also available online
This date already has enough participants. Free cancellation up to four weeks before the start, so you can secure a place now.