Key Points for Becoming an Influencer

Leadership and influence are intrinsically linked; you must also be an influencer to be a leader. This concept isn’t a new phenomenon. In the fifth century BC, philosopher and military strategist Sun Tzu posited that leaders must treat people right to get results.

Echoing this sentiment in his 1936 classic, How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie laid out enduring lessons that can still help you become a better leader and influencer.

“You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” -Dale Carnegie

When I assumed my role as a District Resource Teacher, I joined a team of professionals who were very good at their jobs. As a result, they had strong opinions on how to accomplish our mission. During our meetings, team members would vigorously debate their position.

I wasn’t sure how to contribute to the discussion at my first department meeting, so I decided to watch, listen, and learn. Once the meeting was over, I would meet with different team members to understand their positions.

After a couple of meetings, I actively participated in the meeting, as if I had been in the department for years. So, how did I assimilate so quickly in the environment? I spent the first few weeks building relationships using the strategies I learned from Dale Carnegie.

So, let’s explore some key points to becoming an effective influencer and driving your vision forward.

Mastering Carnegie’s Principles for Influence

Dale Carnegie outlined several principles crucial for influencing others:

1. Don’t Criticize, Condemn, or Complain: Negative feedback can alienate people. Instead, fostering a constructive environment encourages collaboration.

2. Show Interest in Other People: Take the time to know your colleagues genuinely. Understanding their motivations can help align their objectives with your vision.

3. Be a Good Listener: Listening helps you gather valuable information and shows others that you value their input.

4. Win Someone Over by Finding Common Ground: Start with points of agreement to build rapport before delving into areas of disagreement.

5. Ask Questions Instead of Giving Direct Orders: Engaging others by asking their opinions fosters a sense of ownership and involvement.

6. Show Respect for Others’ Opinions: Even when you disagree, showing respect can open avenues for dialogue and mutual understanding.

7. Admit When You’re Wrong: Quick and emphatically acknowledging mistakes can mitigate negative repercussions and build trust.

8. Use Encouragement: Empowering others with words of encouragement fosters a supportive atmosphere conducive to success.

9. Talk in Terms of Others’ Interests: Frame your ideas in a way that aligns with your team members' interests and goals.

These skills draw people to you, making them more likely to own a part of your vision and work towards its achievement.

Crafting a Strategic Plan for Influence

To influence others effectively, you need to develop a strategic plan that covers:

1. Inspiring: Share a compelling vision that resonates with your team. Tell stories, offer examples, and paint a picture of the future that everyone can relate to.

2. Empowering: Provide the resources and authority your team needs to take ownership of their tasks. Trust them to make decisions and contribute meaningfully.

3. Equipping: Ensure your team has the necessary tools and training to succeed. Invest in their growth and development.

4. Supporting: Be there for your team. Offer guidance, listen to concerns, and provide constructive feedback.

Investing in Your Team

Take the time to invest in your team by:

1. Listening to Their Needs: Pay attention to what your team members need to excel in their roles.

2. Using Open-Ended Questions: Ask questions that encourage detailed responses, helping you gather more comprehensive information.

3. Welcoming Involvement: Encourage team members to participate actively in discussions and decision-making processes.

4. Being Respectful and Flexible: Respect their ideas and be willing to adapt when necessary.

5. Being Transparent: Honesty and transparency build trust and credibility.

6. Doing What You Say: Keep your promises to build trust and integrity.

Balancing Formal and Informal Power

Both formal and informal power play crucial roles in your ability to influence and support your team. To maximize your influence:

1. Cultivate Relationships at All Levels: Build connections throughout the organization to expand your network and influence.

2. Understand Before You Persuade: Take the time to understand different perspectives before trying to persuade others to see yours.

3. Maintain Open and Friendly Communication: Ensure your tone and body language convey openness and friendliness.

4. Continuously Develop Your Expertise: Enhance your skills and knowledge to add more value to others.

Influence and Leadership in Tandem

Becoming an influencer is as challenging as being a leader, and the two roles are intertwined. True leaders leverage their formal authority and informal influence to drive their vision forward. By mastering these principles and strategically planning your approach, you can become a compelling influencer and effective leader, guiding your team toward collective success.

#EducationalLeader,

Kim

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The views shared in the Educational Leadership Moment are solely mine and do not reflect the positions of my employer or any entity within the local, state, or federal government sectors.

Reference

Carnegie, D. (1936). How to Win Friends and Influence People. Simon & Schuster.