The 9 Pillars of Influence: A Guide to Becoming More Influential as a Leader

Complexity and change are the only constants in today's fast-paced business environments.

With diverse workplace cultures, multiple generations, and dynamic team interactions, the workplace landscape has evolved significantly. This evolution has led to a disconnection between leaders and their employees, making influencing others more challenging. A recent Deloitte report revealed that 63% of millennials feel they aren't being fully developed as leaders by their employers, further highlighting the current disconnect between executive leaders and the needs of today's workforce.

Thus, the onus is on leaders to build and wield influence effectively, gaining the power to drive meaningful change, selling their ideas convincingly, and delivering superior results, all while inspiring and empowering their teams.

So, how can you enhance your influence as a leader? Below are the nine pillars that should form the foundation of your efforts.

1. Build Authentic Relationships

When building your influence, the power of authentic relationships cannot be overstated. These relationships, built based on trust, mutual respect, and genuine care, are the cornerstone of influential leadership.

Or, to phrase it another way, your ability to influence as a leader is directly proportional to the strength of your relationships with your team members, peers, stakeholders, and customers.

To build authentic relationships, it's crucial to practice curiosity and empathy. Strive to understand the perspectives, talents, goals, and pressures of those around you.

This outcome can be achieved by asking powerful, open-ended questions that encourage dialogue and, more importantly, actively listening to their responses. Active listening provides valuable insights and conveys your respect and appreciation for them as individuals.

Lastly, it's essential to add value to their lives and help them succeed. This could be providing constructive feedback, offering growth opportunities, or simply being there for them in times of need. By doing so, you not only enhance your influence but also foster a supportive and collaborative work environment.

2. Demonstrate Impeccable Character

The character of a leader is the foundation upon which the trust of their team is built.

Leaders who demonstrate impeccable character embody integrity, uphold high standards, and lead with a blend of confidence and humility. They are the ones who walk the talk, ensuring their actions align with their words, setting a powerful example for their team.

A leader's character is also reflected in their commitment to serve others. This service-oriented mindset, often called servant leadership, involves prioritizing the team's needs, fostering their growth, and setting them up for success. It's about leading from the front but also stepping back to celebrate the team's victories, acknowledge their contributions, and express gratitude.

In short, demonstrating impeccable character as a leader means becoming the standard-bearer for the values you wish to see in your team.

3. Foster Collaboration

Influential leaders understand that the key to organizational success lies in the power of collaboration. They recognize that each department and team member brings unique expertise to the table, and the synergy of these diverse skills drives the organization toward its goals.

Fostering collaboration involves building coalitions, creating a shared sense of purpose, and facilitating open and effective communication. It's about sharing responsibility, ensuring everyone feels valued and involved in decision-making.

Moreover, celebrating wins as a collective is crucial. It acknowledges the team's hard work and reinforces the sense of shared achievement, further strengthening the collaborative spirit.

4. Inspire Others to Want to Do Their Best Work

As an influential leader, you must understand that your role extends beyond directing tasks; it involves inspiring your team to strive for excellence. You should create an environment that motivates individuals to tap into their potential and deliver their best work.

A prime example of this is the leadership style of the late Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple. He was known for his ability to inspire his team to "put a dent in the universe." He didn't just set high standards; he instilled in his team a belief that they could achieve the extraordinary, leading to groundbreaking innovations like the iPhone.

When leaders inspire their team in this way, they boost their influence and drive the team's performance, engagement, and job satisfaction to new heights.

5. Focus on the Greater Good

Successful leaders always keep their eyes on the bigger picture. They understand that their team's efforts are part of a larger mission and ensure this vision is communicated clearly and consistently.

They highlight the interconnectedness of individual, team, and organizational goals, showing how each contributes to the overall mission. This perspective helps team members see beyond their immediate tasks and understand their role in the organization's success.

Adopting this approach will not only foster a sense of unity and purpose within your team but will also motivate individuals to contribute their best, knowing that their work makes a significant impact.

6. Solve Important Problems

If you aspire to become an influential leader, you need to be a problem-solver at heart. You need to understand that your role should involve tackling the critical challenges that can significantly impact your organization's trajectory. Take time to focus on the 'big picture' issues that can drive substantial change and progress.

This doesn't mean you should ignore the day-to-day issues. Instead, delegate effectively, empowering your team members to handle these tasks while you focus on the strategic problems.

By reframing your mindset to focus on what really matters, you free up your time for high-level problem-solving and provide growth opportunities for your team.

7. Plan an Influence Campaign

Effective leaders know that achieving their goals often involves a strategic influence campaign. This process begins with identifying the key decision-makers and assessing their level of support for your ideas. It's crucial to gain sufficient backing from individuals with the necessary influence and power.

Planning an influence campaign involves presenting a realistic cost-benefit analysis of your ideas, demonstrating how the benefits outweigh the costs. It's about engaging in discussions, not monologues, to persuade others of your viewpoint.

The best leaders map out the terrain, assemble the right team, and set specific, measurable goals. They understand that success depends on thorough preparation and precise execution, so you must take the time to plan and think several steps ahead.

8. Clearly Ask for What You Want

As a leader, clarity in communication is critical. It's essential to articulate your expectations concisely, openly, and frequently. Don't leave room for assumptions; ensure everyone is on the same page through open-ended questions and engaging dialogue.

When making a request or proposing an idea, eliminate any unnecessary fluff. Present your case, provide compelling reasons, and highlight the mutual benefits. This approach ensures your message is understood and motivates your team to take action.

By ensuring comprehension, you’re far more likely to have your expectations met.

9. Be Resilient and Weather the Storm

Leadership is not always smooth sailing. Sometimes unexpected challenges arise, plans go awry, or external factors disrupt your progress. In these moments, your resilience as a leader is tested.

Resilient leaders don't just weather the storm; they use these challenges as opportunities for growth. They remain steadfast in their vision, adapt their strategies as needed, and inspire their team to do the same. They maintain a positive outlook, instilling hope and confidence in their team, even in the face of adversity. By doing so, they become a bastion of strength and resilience within their organization and someone employees turn to for guidance and inspiration. There isn't a more bona fide test of your influence than when someone seeks you out for advice and guidance in times of trouble.

Amplify Your Leadership Influence Today

From building authentic relationships and inspiring others to fostering collaboration and weathering storms, each step discussed above plays a vital role in amplifying your leadership influence.

In essence, boosting your influence is about becoming the leader others want to follow. It's about inspiring, empowering, and leading your team towards shared goals, making a significant impact on your organization's success.

If you want to boost your influence as a leader and could use some guidance, my executive coaching services can help. With my expertise and support, you can enhance your leadership skills, boost your influence, and drive you and your team towards greater success.

Why not connect with me today to learn more about how I can help you improve your leadership skills and enhance your influential status within your company?

Filed Under: Influence | Leadership | Management | Emotional Intelligence | Success