Documentation Controls Influence

Shaan Puri and Sam Parr discuss how controlling information flow and documentation within a company can establish significant influence and create opportunities for career advancement. They emphasize that those who create and manage key information systems often become invaluable team members.

Key Points:

• Information Control Creates Power

  • The person who writes or documents history often controls the narrative
  • Being the creator of key documents/sheets gives you control over what gets tracked
  • People have to come to you when they need information

• Documentation Best Practices

  • Create high-quality Google sheets and slides
  • Make presentations look professional and work efficiently
  • Control the information flow through well-structured documentation

• Communication Strategy

  • Write internal newsletters to key stakeholders
  • Format using simple structures (like 1-2-3 format)
    • One photo from camera roll
    • Two thoughts about the company
    • Three interesting links
  • Target influential people in the company

• Building Internal Influence

  • Present work clearly and consistently
  • Be loud about achievements (but not boastful)
  • Control project tracking and reporting methods
  • Make yourself the go-to person for important information

• Practical Implementation

  • Volunteer to create tracking systems
  • Build templates others can use
  • Document processes and outcomes
  • Share updates regularly with leadership
  • Make information accessible but maintain ownership

• Key Mindset

  • Be a maker, not a taker of plans
  • Write your own versions of important documents
  • Practice leadership skills through documentation
  • Take initiative in creating systems others will use