5 Habits to Increase Your Influence

Influence is the true currency of change. This is true, regardless of whether you lead a team, a company, or an organization. Your ability to influence others beyond your job title is paramount to your success and those around you. The influence I am talking about is not positional power, that power is given based on your role or title in a company. Leadership influence is more subtle because it is granted to you by those you are in contact with, your circle of influence.

Let’s be clear, this article is not about bossing people around or getting your ego stroked just because you want to be a big deal in your company. If it is, this article is probably not for you and I’m okay with that. Leading others and having earned influence is a privilege. It’s also an opportunity to serve and support those around you, enhance the organization you are part of, and make a better life for yourself and those you love.  But, here is where many people putter out. Being a better, more effective leader with influence awareness, practice, discipline, evaluation, and repetition. 

Five habits that can increase your leadership influence.

Communication: Are you just a little disappointed that this was first? I was, but communication is the bedrock of leadership influence. Leaders who can articulate their vision, listen actively, and provide clear direction are more likely to gain trust and respect. Try practicing active listening by genuinely engaging with your team members’ ideas, accomplishments, and concerns. Be transparent in your communication, sharing both successes and challenges. Effective communication builds rapport and fosters a culture of openness and collaboration. It is also how you can challenge your team when needed. 

Lead by Example: As a leader, your actions speak louder than words. You lose credibility if you consistently act one way and then act differently when the audience or situation changes. People are more likely to follow leaders who embody the values and behaviors they talk about. Lead by example by demonstrating integrity, accountability, and resilience in your words and actions. Show your team what it means to work hard, take ownership of mistakes, and continually strive for improvement. When you lead by example, you can inspire or motivate others to do the same. 

Empower Others: True leadership is not about exerting control over others but empowering those in your circle of influence to learn, grow, and develop in alignment with your organization’s goals. Influential leaders contribute to the growth of others and generate the best results, loyalty, and commitment. Remember that people work for people and not a company. Your most talented want and deserve your best in return for theirs. Empowerment provides an opportunity for ownership and autonomy, leading to increased motivation and innovation. Delegate responsibilities when you can and provide opportunities for growth and development. Recognize and celebrate the achievements of your team members, and give them the support and resources they need to succeed. Empowering others can elevate performance and grow your influence as a leader.

Build Relationships: Leadership is fundamentally a relationship-based endeavor. Don’t worry; you’re not lowering your standards by being interested in your people. Don’t be afraid to foster relationships in the workplace. Invest time and effort in building authentic connections with your team members, colleagues, and stakeholders. Be curious and strive to understand their strengths, motivations, and aspirations. Show genuine care and empathy, and be approachable and accessible to them.

Continuous Learning and Growth: Leadership growth is a journey, not a destination. 

Sorry, folks, but to grow as a leader, you must continue to grow. There isn’t any way around it because the best leaders are a curious type of person. So you have two choices: push yourself to learn and grow, or stay as you are and accept your current leadership skills, influence, and growth. But know that it’s a choice so choose wisely.

Invest in your development through reading, attending workshops and seminars, and seeking feedback from mentors and peers. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and be willing to adapt and evolve as a leader.  

Ok, let’s wrap this up.

Leadership and influence (not positional power) are skills you can develop, refine, and improve at. Not quickly, but if you’re interested and motivated to improve, you can. 

BONUS POINTS:  Learning and applying these habits helps outside of work.  Who wouldn’t want to be around someone who takes a genuine interest in others, is consistent, communicates, and is a learner? Remember, leadership influence isn’t only about the job title you hold.

Resources

The Leadership Podcast: Jim Vaselopulos and Jan Rutherford

Book: Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek