It seems strange to have got almost to the end of this series of articles without having considered what it means to be an influential leader. The assumption that this term is understood took hold as early as the title of the series. Yet, I don’t believe it would be right to finish the series without sharing my notion of what an influential leader is.
A key reason for doing this is that if you have a clear idea of what you are aiming for, getting there is so much quicker. It also seems reasonable that if you are at a senior level, you will also want to foster a team of influencers to help you to achieve your goals.
Below you will find my basic criteria. All of these need to be met convincingly for me to recognise someone as an influential leader. I have no doubt that you can add to this list, and please do because it will help you all the more.
An Influential Leader is someone who:
- Is focused on achieving a clear vision of the future (at least 2-3 years ahead).
- Has a clear and well-considered strategy to realise their vision.
- Can comfortably handle the immediate challenges and pressures, thus allowing time to develop the future.
- Has multiple (and concurrent) streams of influencing activity that address the varied needs of different stakeholders within their leadership arena.
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- Understands the political landscape and the various power plays in action.
- Faces tough opposition to their vision.
- Can marshal the necessary resources to move towards their vision.
- Can inspire and motivate commitment from a broad group of people who actively contribute towards their purpose.
- Has a strong, vibrant and growing network across the whole of their arena and beyond.
- Utilises a wide range of approaches and techniques to influence people.
- Is calm, relaxed and confident that they can influence successfully.
- Gets things done when they plan to get things done.
What can you add to this list? For more inspiration, take a look at the introduction to Influential Leadership where you will find 27 competencies that capture the total requirement of an influential leader.
A few of the items above warrant a little explanation.
Firstly, the one about the time horizon. Many people I meet are doing most of the things about, but, focused on short-term goals. They would argue that they are being strategic in their approach, even if their goal is only six months away. My retort is that in order to maximise the benefit of their skills and influence, they should be thinking of the bigger picture, looking at the systemic flaws in their arena and aiming at bigger goals. The relentless procession of short-term problems hides root causes and keeps talented people occupied while the powerful people prosper.
The second point worth making is about facing tough opposition. It could reasonably be argued that if someone is a proficient and successful strategic influencer, he/she will be able to overcome any opposition and be able to sit back and relax while everything completes. True enough. However, similar to the point about, have they aimed too low? What else could they be doing?
In reality, really good influential leaders are moving on quickly to bigger and better things, even before the previous vision has been fully realised. They like the excitement and the play of making big things happen.
So, are you an influential leader?
- Which criterion is a real strength for you?
- Which need to be improved?
- How will you benefit if you can improve them?
- Who can act as a role model for each criterion you want to improve?
- What action are you going to take to advance your strategic influencing skills?
Although every article in this series has been contributing to your influencing skills, there is plenty more available to stretch your thinking, learning and capability. I hope that you make full use of them.
In the final article of the series, I will share with you some strong suggestions that you need to follow if you want to become a really accomplished influential leader.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]