One rule from What It Takes by Stephen A. Schwarzman, co-founder of Blackstone stands out:

There is nothing more important to someone than their own problems.

This applies everywhere — with executives, teammates, and clients.

If you speak directly to what’s on their mind — and have something thoughtful to offer — they will listen.

Too often we focus on:
• Our agenda
• Our priorities
• Our message

But real influence starts with understanding:

• What pressure they’re under
• What success looks like in their world
• What risks they’re trying to avoid

When you truly understand that, alignment becomes possible.

You stop pushing.
You start solving.

Because at the end of the day, everyone is asking the same question:

Do you understand my problem?