Building your influence in the workplace – Five guidelines
The ability to influence others is a valuable skill, and the maxim “influence is power” is well known.
Indeed, gaining influence on a team or in your business not only helps you work more effectively, but also builds trust with both your clients and co-workers.
So, whether you are an ambitious businessperson just starting out, or an office worker handling a steady workload, these guidelines should help you obtain a more consistent style of leadership and influence:
- Set consistent expectations with both colleagues and clients
Being a consistent performer, especially if you are in a lower position, is essential, as it demonstrates a strong degree of dedication to the job
- Be assertive but not aggressive
This will cultivate a reputation of authority and further earn you the ability to influence your peers and employees
- Be flexible
Being too set in your ways or beliefs will work against you, as some people may come to see you as stubborn and immovable. This can compromise your overall influence
- Let your personality shine through
This goes a long way when building your influence in the workplace or in your business. And it is even more important when you are in a higher position as a boss or supervisor. So, try to go out of your way to maintain personal exchanges with your co-workers or clients. They will be also more receptive to you when you willingly disclose your ideas or opinions. And always remember to focus on actions not arguments
- ‘Show, instead of tell’
Always demonstrate your ideas with real examples: or at the very least have the actions to back up whatever it is you are saying.
And finally, always genuinely (and actively) listen to others, as influence is a two-way street.
By encouraging others to speak up, especially if they do not often voice their opinions, you also let them know you value them.
This creates an atmosphere of mutual trust, respect, and teamwork -ensuring your influence really does pay dividends.
By Mike Peeters