Influencing Decisions with Data and AI: Nontechnical Skills for Data and AI Professionals

Course details

Strong technical skills alone are no longer enough for data professionals working in modern, AI-driven organizations. This course focuses on the non-technical skills that most directly shape impact: communicating with stakeholders, navigating ambiguity, and influencing decisions with data. Through real-world scenarios, explore how to frame problems, set expectations, explain uncertainty, and handle disagreement with non-technical partners. The course grounds these skills in everyday data and AI workflows, where results are probabilistic and tradeoffs are unavoidable. Rather than abstract advice, learners gain practical guidance for making their work understood, trusted, and acted upon.

Learning objectives
Lead and ship strategic, high-impact DS/ML projects.
Get stakeholder buy-in, even from tough execs.
Lead meetings and execute one-on-ones with data to guide decision-making.
Use data to identify and focus on priorities.
Get high-impact projects that advance your career.

Concepts

Introduction

Transforming technical insight into influence

Earning Trust and Building Alignment with Stakeholders

Reframing the role of data and AI
Gathering information and navigating discovery calls
Defining success metrics and setting expectations
Speaking the stakeholders' language
Navigating ambiguity and decision-making under uncertainty

Influencing Decisions and Buy-In in Stakeholder Conversations

Keep stakeholders close - Update early and often
Leading influential meetings and building relationships
Presenting your findings and proposals with confidence
Communicating with clarity and influence in emails and messages
Creating persuasive buy-in and adoption with stakeholders
Meditation - Connect with your inner confidence

Navigating Real-World Challenges - Pressure, Trade-Offs, and Scope

Responding to urgent asks and learning how to say no
Handling endless ad hoc requests strategically
Pushing back when you're pressured to launch
Navigating hype or automation culture when it clashes with reality

Maintaining Course When Something Doesn't Work

Dealing with unexpected challenges
Turning failure into reusable assets
Rebuilding confidence after a setback

Closing the Loop for Long-Term Success and Impact

Leading an impactful project handoff
Success for your stakeholders - Setting them up for long-term success and impact
Success for yourself - Showcasing wins and amplifying your influence

Conclusion

Becoming a trusted business advisor