Mastering the art of influence is a leader's essential skill

#executiveleadership #strategicinfluence #highimpact c-suite Nov 07, 2024

Leadership effectiveness is measured not just by results but also by relationships, mastering influence has become a top priority. Recent research highlights that leaders who excel in influence foster 22% higher engagement among their teams. Let’s explore how you can enhance your influence in a meaningful way.

 

Personal anecdote/story

Consider the story of a CEO who turned around a struggling company by prioritising emotional intelligence. By listening to employee concerns and fostering an open culture, they transformed scepticism into enthusiasm. It isn’t about authority; it’s about connection.

 

Self-awareness and personal balance

Regular reflection can help you identify your emotional triggers and improve your responses. Consider these well-being tips:

Mindfulness practices: allocate 10 minutes daily for mindfulness to clear your mind.

Seek feedback: regularly ask for feedback from peers to gain insights into your leadership style.

 

Strategic model for leadership challenges

The empathetic leader framework can guide you:

  1. Acknowledge emotions: recognise the feelings of your team.
  2. Engage in dialogue: foster discussions that allow team members to express their views.
  3. Empower decisions: involve your team in decision-making processes.

 

Relational insights for enhancing trust

To enhance trust and communication:

Regular updates: keep stakeholders informed about progress and setbacks.

Personal touch: send personalised messages to acknowledge significant contributions.

Enhancing your influence is achievable through self-awareness, empathy, and strategic engagement. Start with one actionable step this week, whether it's a team check-in or a reflective practice.

What strategies have you found effective in boosting your influence? Share your insights and consider subscribing for more actionable content.

 

References

  1. Havard business review - strengthen your ability to influence people
  2. Gallup- 10 ways leaders can improve engagement and wellbeing
  3. Mckinsey- a model for effective change management | mckinsey

Hi, this is me, Margo,

I’ve coached thousands of leaders gain insights, make informed decisions, and enhance their leadership by focusing on three key areas: self, strategy, and stakeholders. 

Through prioritising their own wellbeing, developing their emotional intelligence, crafting thought through strategic decisions, and fostering stronger relationships with key stakeholders, this increases  longer term value and impact. This holistic approach drives meaningful, sustainable change in how they lead, innovate, and engage with others, creating enduring value for themselves and their organisations.

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