Matrixed Organizations: why you need to enhance and improve your persuading and influencing skills

Understanding Matrixed organisational structures 

Matrix management is based on organizational structures in which some individuals report to more than one supervisor or leader. Relationships are usually described as “solid line”, however in matrixed organizations they are mostly referred to as “dotted line” reporting and also understood in the context of horizontal & diagonal communication as opposed to vertical.

Matrixed organisations specifically focus on cross-functional, cross-business groups and other work models that do not maintain strict vertical business units or silos that are grouped by function and geography. Matrix management was first developed in the U.S. aerospace industries in the 1950s and achieved wider adoption in the 1970s. 

Today in 2025 most global organisations have adopted the matrixed model. Much of this has been shaped by the use of Information Technology including the establishment and development of remote and virtual teams. Since the pandemic, a high percentage of public sector and private sector organisations have moved to hybrid working, which further leverages matrix structures.

What are the benefits of the Matrix Organization?

• Enhanced Flexibility and Responsiveness: Matrix structures allow organizations to respond quickly to changing market demands and project requirements by combining different functional and project-based perspectives.
• Improved Resource Utilization: They facilitate better sharing of resources across projects and departments, optimizing the use of personnel, equipment, and expertise.
• Greater Collaboration and Communication: The dual reporting relationships encourage cross-functional communication, fostering teamwork and innovation.
• Focus on Both Functional and Project Objectives: Employees can develop specialized skills in their functional area while also contributing to project goals, supporting a balanced approach to skill development and organizational priorities.
• Increased Customer and Market Focus: By organizing around projects and product lines, organizations can better align their efforts with customer needs and market trends.

The importance of Persuading and Influencing Skills in a matrix organization

In 2025, pharmaceutical companies are wrestling with increasingly complicated organizational structures. The traditional hierarchical model has been replaced by matrix organizations, where employees often report to multiple managers across different functional areas.

Here are  7 reasons for improving your persuading and influencing skills in a matrixed organization:

1. Complex Structure: Matrixed organizations often have multiple reporting lines and cross-functional teams. Effective persuasion helps you navigate these complexities and gain buy-in from various stakeholders.

2. Collaboration: Success often relies on collaboration between different departments. Strong influencing skills enable you to foster teamwork, align goals, and encourage open communication, which can enhance project outcomes.

3. Diverse Perspectives: In a matrixed setting, you encounter individuals with different viewpoints and priorities. Being persuasive helps you articulate your ideas clearly and find common ground, leading to more effective decision-making.

4. Resource Allocation: Often, you need to influence others to secure resources or support for your initiatives. Strong skills in persuasion can help you present your case compellingly, making it easier to garner the necessary backing.

5. Change Management: Organizations frequently undergo change. Effective persuasion can help you lead others through transitions by addressing concerns and rallying support for new initiatives.

6. Building Relationships: Influencing skills are essential for building and maintaining relationships across the organization. Strong relationships can lead to increased trust and cooperation, which are vital for long-term success.

7. Personal Growth: Enhancing these skills can also contribute to your professional development, making you a more effective leader and increasing your career opportunities within the organization.

The skill sets and tools that help to achieve these 7 factors, will be covered in the IPI Academy’s forthcoming webinar from the 7^th to the 10^th  July 2025

Published on May 28, 2025 by Robert Hersowitz