Influence

Being a leader and persuading others is no easy job; some people can make others do their bidding happily while for others it takes a lot of time and even some coercion.The word influenceis an authoritative word, it has a meaning that it has the act or power of producing an effect without apparent exertion of force or direct exercise of command. Basically “to affect or change someone or something in indirect but usually important way”. Being able to have the ability to impact an individual in a positive or negative way. Understanding that the word “influential “is a powerful tool, that most geek in are not involving to their skills or their essence of not being too expressed things out clearly or develop the potential to create an impact. In which we call “influence” to those that are wanting the experience and desire they are looking forward to understanding “the why” and “who” that created the sense of urgency on where they are now. 

Often, more than most individual get carried away from the difference between being an influencer or having power over others. Well influencer leaders share their success from their past on gaining the experience they have now and where they stand. While power leadershipsfail because the influence leaders tend to be more “likeable” than those who are labeled power. The reason behind this, they consistently identify the common points of which create interest with others that an agreement or the settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions that leaves satisfaction. Power leaders seek control and often abuse their influence.Often, they have an intense feeling for longing something for attention and respect, using their power to command attention. They lead by intimidation and fear rather than by garnering respect. They see it as their right and privilege to rule over others rather than their responsibility to set a positive example, advise and offer guidance. Because they keep people close to them who are likeminded, their teams that are related may enjoy comfortable relationships with one another, but they tend to be less innovative.

When I went to work with my father when he worked for the Sheraton hotels as the IT director. my father introduced me to his boss which was the CEO of the building, we communicated about how I want to do the work my father is doing but more advanced. These are what he said that stuck with me till this day. Power is positional and Influence is personal, but Power pushes as well as Influence persuades. most importantly, Power is resented, while Influence is respected. But always remember Power expires, Influence endures.

So, understanding the difference between leading with influence, my father’s boss did influence me by giving me information that would help later in life in a workplace environment. As his boss did so, hopefully this blog will so as well. Because at the end of the day getting people to do things through influence, rather than power, suggests a softer approach, one based on more of an emotional appeal than an authoritative one. it is always great to imply these 6 principles of influence in your communications skills in the workplace in order to become a positive influence towards others to those that are under your supervision. unlike our attempts to control, our attempts to influence dont require our conscious intent. as individuals we are always exerting influence simply by being who we are, saying what we say, and doing what we do. the only real choice is that we have in this matter is whether or not the influence we exert is good or bad!