Influence: producing change without force
Influencing others to make decisions and take action in a certain way constitutes a major element of leadership. Influence enables us to motivate others toward common goals, optimizing the organization’s talents and resources. Influence equips us to extend our reach, experience new opportunities, and leave a legacy that will reach future generations.
To have a real, positive influence on those around you, you must have strong personal character. Trust is valuable in the workplace, and anyone who has proven to be trustworthy has one of the key attributes of an influential person. You also must be reliable. A reputation of reliability is earned over time as you follow through on decisions, persevere despite setbacks, stick to agreements, and avoid making promises you cannot keep. Finally, to be an influential leader you must display generosity. Influential people are willing to go the extra mile to help others.
“The key to successful leadership is influence, not authority.” – Kenneth H. Blanchard
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