Want to Be More Influential? Stop Trying So Hard!
Ever noticed how some people seem to effortlessly influence others while the rest of us feel like we're pushing a boulder uphill? (And yes, I've been there, attempting to influence with all the grace of a giraffe on roller skates! 🦒)
Let's talk about strategic influence - the kind that doesn't require you to channel your inner cringey / sleazy salesperson or perfect your power pose in the bathroom mirror.
The Influence Myth-Busting Edition
Myth #1: "You Need to Be Loud to Be Heard" Reality Check: The most influential leaders I've worked with often speak the least in meetings. They've mastered the art of strategic contribution - knowing when to speak up and how to make their words count. It's quality over quantity
Myth #2: "Influence Comes from Position" Plot Twist: Your job title has less impact than you think. Real influence comes from building trust, demonstrating competence, and - here's the kicker - helping others succeed. It's less about pushing your agenda and more about creating win-win situations.
The Three Pillars of Strategic Influence
The Relationship Builder Think of influence like a garden (stay with me here!). You can't plant seeds one day and expect flowers the next. Building genuine connections, understanding others' motivations, and being consistently reliable creates fertile ground for influence to grow.
The Value Creator Want to be influential? Solve problems. But here's the trick - solve the right problems. Understanding your organisation's real challenges (not just the obvious ones) and contributing meaningful solutions makes you indispensable.
The Trust Magnet Trust is like a coffee loyalty card - it takes time to fill up, but the rewards are worth it. Being consistent, following through on commitments, and maintaining confidentiality builds your trust bank account.
Real Talk: The Messy Middle
Let's be honest - building influence while managing up and down can feel like trying to pat your head and rub your belly while riding a unicycle. It's tricky! But here's what I've learned:
Stop trying to influence everyone (it's exhausting and ineffective)
Focus on key stakeholders who can help drive change
Build your reputation through consistent, quality work
Share credit generously (it comes back tenfold)
Learn to read the room (virtually and in-person)
The Game-Changing Question:
Instead of asking "How can I be more influential?" try this: "How can I add more value to others?"
This simple shift in thinking can transform your approach to influence and leadership.
Ready to Level Up Your Influence?
I've got something special for you, Introducing the Management Success Cards® - Your Pocket Leadership Coach!
What makes these cards different? Well, just like you don't learn to ride a bike by reading a manual, you don't become an influential leader by just reading theory. These cards are designed for real-world application, perfect for busy leaders like you who need quick, actionable insights.
What's in the Deck:
65 colour-coded cards covering 12 essential management skills
Instant focus points for your biggest leadership challenges
Practical strategies you can implement immediately
Thought-provoking prompts to boost your confidence
Quick wisdom shots for those "I need help now!" moments
Think of it as having a leadership coach in your pocket!
Remember: Leadership development doesn't have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. Sometimes, the best insights come in small, (colourful) powerful packages!
