Training Portal

Influence

Influence is the power to have an important effect on someone or something. To be more influential, you need to get the relationship between power and influence right. Power and influence are inextricably linked, but someone who is powerful isn’t necessarily influential. The ability to influence others through your words or behaviour is extremely valuable, as business is about building and making the most of relationships. Being technically good at your job isn’t enough, as things get done through relationships, so being able to build relationships, influence and persuade people is key to getting the support and commitment of others and ultimately getting things done. It can be difficult to get things done unless people are persuaded to adapt their view, and to do that you need to build an emotional connection with them, whilst delivering logical and compelling arguments. Managers need to have a certain amount of influence to be effective, but a good leader will win hearts and minds by being inspiring, motivating and compelling leading to a high level of influence.

Influence - Introduction

Are you a poor presenter?
Relax, be prepared, and engage with your audience to improve your influence as a presenter.

Are you seen as stubborn or rigid?
Be open to others' ideas and responsive to their input to enhance your influence and encourage collaboration.

Do you fail to do what you say?
Build trust and credibility by consistently following through on your commitments and communicating any changes promptly.

Do you lack allies?
Build trust and rapport by investing time in relationships, understanding others' motivations, and supporting their ideas to increase your influence.

Do you lack passion?
Express your ideas with passion and rational arguments to inspire and influence others effectively.

Do you play your cards too close to your chest?
Increase trust and influence by being transparent, sharing information, and responding to feedback.

Do you tend to be too directive?
Build relationships and collaborate with others, using reason and aligning your requests with their needs and values.

Is your work ethic everything it could be?
Increase your influence by demonstrating a strong work ethic, taking on additional responsibilities, and increasing your visibility across the business.

Do you lack confidence?
Address the root cause of your lack of confidence, gather information, and plan your approach to influence others effectively.

Influence - Summary