Reading the title alone, I thought of personal contexts rather than professional. I have had influence in personal contexts. By not judging, spending time wit

Reading the title alone, I thought of personal contexts rather than professional. I have had influence in personal contexts. By not judging, spending time with the person, and slowly explaining my point of view -- often after listening to theirs without immediate response or interruption. Key to this was the investment of time. And key to that, perhaps, was that I enjoyed the person, even if I did not agree with some of their viewpoints and opinions. They were fair with me and enjoyable to be around (within the limited context of our relationship), and that provided the context for trust and understanding. I'm mindful that these same traits may apply in professional contexts. You may not agree with someone else's approach or opinion, but you may enjoy spending time with or working with them. Over time, they may come to a greater appreciation of your point of view, especially as they observe your abilities and integrity. So... it's back to time and relationships. Convincing someone may well be more, or something else than, a brilliant argument that provokes an immediate transformation. You earn respect and trust, and perspective comes along for the ride. Of course, this is predicated on some positive professional or personal connection. I've experienced this at work. I have been smart and I have come through with solutions. Over time, others have come to grant my ideas consideration because of this. It's worked in large corporations, allowing my to bypass normally undefeatable red tape. If people know you and have learned to rely on you, you can often at least get due consideration. And, in turn, if the answer is "no", you may get an explanation, rather than just "no". It's worth the effort, for them.