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Leadership - A Question of Influence

In essence, leadership is about taking others to places they have not been before. However, to lead successfully you also have to influence others to gain their commitment and engagement to the direction you believe is right.

Many researchers have indicated that influence can be seen as working on a number of levels. Clearly the most fundamental level of influence is around what you tell other people, but it also about the relationship you have with them as well as how you are seen to act and behave.

As stated above, the most fundamental level of influence is around what you say to other people. For example:

* Do you recognise the right time for instruction? There is no point attempting to influence some one when they are emotionally tired, upset or angry.

* Do you truly believe in what you are saying?

* Is your body language congruent with what you say?

* Are your expectations clear as well as the consequences for not meeting your expectations?

* Do you give up or give in easily?

* Do you talk through you differences with other people?

The next level of influence is around the relationships you have with other people. It may sound obvious but you are more likely to influence those that you have an understanding, respectful and trusting relationship with. For example:

* Do you assume the best in other people?

* Do you genuinely seek to understand other people or do you just want to give them advice?

* Do respond to others in a way that demonstrates understanding of other people’s position and concerns?

* If offended do you take the initiative to clear it up?

* Do you admit your mistakes and apologise?

* Are you influenced by others first?

* Do you keep promises to yourself and others? Do you make promises you know you will not keep or have difficulty keeping?

The highest level of influence is around who you are and how you act. Other people will be far more influenced by what you do that what you say. For example:

* How often do you lead by example (i.e. do what you say)?

* Do you say negative things/unkind things or do you criticise others publicly?

* Are you a model of restraint, and do you demonstrate emotional self control?

* Are you patient with others? Patience is a practical demonstration of faith in and respect for others.

* Do you focus on what you can do to make the difference, or what others need to do?

* Are you genuine and sincere?

The most effective leaders and influencers work on all three levels at the same time. Being a perfect role model and having good relationships will not be sufficient if you don’t explain to people what you expect. Conversely, people will soon loose faith in what you say if you do not live by your word, no matter how good your relationship is with them.