Colin Gautrey

When Niceness Becomes a Weakness

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There’s nothing wrong with being kind. In fact, kindness is a leadership strength. The problem arises when kindness turns into people-pleasing, conflict-avoidance, and an inability to say no.

If you recognise yourself in any of the following, you might be too nice:

✅ You hesitate to give tough feedback because you don’t want to upset people.

✅ You say yes to things you don’t want to do because you feel guilty saying no.

✅ You take on extra work to be helpful, even when others should step up.

✅ You avoid difficult conversations, hoping problems will resolve themselves.

✅ You let people talk over you in meetings without pushing back.

✅ You tolerate bad behavior from colleagues, bosses, or clients to ‘keep the peace.’

Sounds familiar? If so, it’s time for a shift.

Because while being nice might earn you appreciation, it won’t earn you respect, influence, or career growth.

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The Ethics of Influence: Five Rules to Live By

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Influence is power—but how you use it determines whether you build lasting success or destroy trust.

Too many people think influence is about pushing an agenda, persuading at all costs, or “winning” at someone else’s expense. That’s not real influence—that’s manipulation. And in the long run, manipulators always lose.

True influence strengthens relationships, builds credibility, and creates mutual success. If you want to influence without damaging trust, these five rules will keep you on the right path. Read More

Nine Traits of a Professional Influencer

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True influence isn’t about authority, persuasion tricks, or manipulation.

It’s about who you are—your presence, your mindset, and how people experience you.

The most impactful influencers—the ones who shape decisions, drive change, and command respect—share a set of traits that make their influence effortless.

They don’t fight for attention.

They don’t push or demand.

Yet people naturally trust them, listen to them, and follow them.

What makes them different? Read More

Embrace Decisiveness: Propel Towards Success

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In a world brimming with opportunities, the silent killer of progress and achievement is indecisiveness. Break free from the chains of uncertainty and embrace the power of making firm decisions. 

Discover how decisive action becomes the driving force propelling you towards a lifetime of accomplishments and success. Let go of the fear of making the wrong choice and take that first bold step forward. 

Each decision sets in motion a chain of events that can lead to unparalleled growth and achievement. Embrace decisiveness as your ally, and witness how it transforms your life, unlocking doors you never knew existed.

Read: The Power of Decisiveness

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Bridges of Influence: Insights from the Pinnacle

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Coaching leaders at the zenith of their fields has revealed a powerful insight: the bridge between good and great is often paved with relentless drive and energy. It's not just about possessing knowledge, but about the zeal to apply it, the determination to make a difference. These leaders don’t just operate; they oscillate with a vibrant energy, resonating with those they lead. My time amongst these titans has affirmed one thing: influence is not just about holding power but wielding it with a dynamism that shapes futures.

 

Read: Oomph  (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence)

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The Power of Empathy in Disagreements

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Empathy, in its essence, is about profound understanding. It's the act of setting aside our shield, stepping beyond our boundaries, and immersing ourselves in another's narrative. When disagreements loom, instead of holding our perspective as an impenetrable fortress, we should traverse the bridge to another's viewpoint. 

By genuinely attempting to see through their lens, we unlock doors to deeper connections, paving the way for richer dialogues and mutual respect. 

This holistic approach not only strengthens bonds but also broadens our horizons, enlightening our journey through the intricate dance of human interaction.

  Read: They Could Be Right (one of the Lessons in Extraordinary Influence) Read More

Master of Influence: Section 2/10

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Clarity of Purpose & Direction

Do you have a clear vision for your leadership and influence?

Influential professionals know where they are heading and can communicate their purpose clearly. A strong sense of direction inspires others and ensures their influence is strategic, not accidental.

How to Score Yourself

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Master of Influence: Master Level

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Master – Developing Your Influence

You have advanced influence skills and can navigate power dynamics with ease. You likely operate at a highly strategic level, anticipating challenges and positioning yourself for long-term impact.  

Part 1: Creating Your Influence Development Plan

Improving your influence skills is a deliberate process that requires reflection, planning, and action. Since you’ve now completed the Master of Influence Assessment and identified your score, the next step is to develop a personal plan for growth.

Here’s how to approach it: Read More

Master of Influence: Adept Level

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Adept – Developing Your Influence

You have a good grasp of influence and are actively using it, but there are still areas to refine and master. You likely have some strong influence strategies, but they may not yet be fully strategic, consistent, or second nature.  

Part 1: Creating Your Influence Development Plan

Improving your influence skills is a deliberate process that requires reflection, planning, and action. Since you’ve now completed the Master of Influence Assessment and identified your score, the next step is to develop a personal plan for growth.

Here’s how to approach it: Read More

Master of Influence: Apprentice Level

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Apprentice – Developing Your Influence

You are at the early stages of developing your influence skills. You may still be figuring out how power and influence operate in the workplace, or you might be hesitant about stepping into an influential role.  

Part 1: Creating Your Influence Development Plan

Improving your influence skills is a deliberate process that requires reflection, planning, and action. Since you’ve now completed the Master of Influence Assessment and identified your score, the next step is to develop a personal plan for growth.

Here’s how to approach it: Read More

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