Comment. Great to see podcasting being embraced. This PME vector is certainly worth investing in. Q. What's the difference between influence and manipulation? ~The purpose. 'Building an agile team rapidly' is a higher order goal where it is both self serving and directly serving the organisation in line with army values. We are inherently put off by an overt display of manipulation. It's often apparent in first attempts / deliberate efforts to build social capital. Formally or otherwise. FIX. REFRAME: the intent is noble, the outcome is teams orientated towards a common goal ie. normed and performing. Practice the techniques in influence / manipulation. Flex the muscle where genuine relationships are already established / throw yourself in the deep end, without liquid courage or props ~ smokers.
Consider reading: How to win friends and influence people, Dale Carnegie.

Open to lines of discussion, suggested reading lists etc. Thanks, T.