Learning to Lean in to Influence
Without influence, growth is impossible.
It’s in our nature to want to expand our reach and to see growth. Our society has coined an Influencer as someone with a larger platform. These individuals have an ability to influence others to take interest in what they have to say and in many cases, what they have to offer. But, I know there is so much more that can come from being in a position of influence. It’s a greater impact that’s intentional for a greater good.
In our business and organization we have the opportunity to tap into the hearts and the motivations of those we serve. This is powerful! I think we underestimate the role we play as leaders. Nelson Mandela put it best when he said, "Lead from the back and let others believe they are in front." Maybe our greatest act will not be building our own success, but inspiring and motivating those we serve so much so that they are better off because they were influenced and impacted by us in some way.
Take a moment to think about the influence that you may have and how you choose to use it.
When I first started coaching, I realized quickly that my role was going to be so much more to those I was serving. I set out early-on to help my people build this beautiful brand and put all the steps in place to start marketing and selling their product. After a few sessions, discussions around marketing strategies, design, and people became underlined in a deeper discussion about purpose and why they were so passionate. I’ve now come to challenge those I work with to dig. They peel back the layers of identity that come with entrepreneurialism and leadership. What emerges is much clarity and a drive that leans in to influencing the lives of those they want to serve beyond initial product and service offerings.
How to Raise Your Influential Impact.
We have these platforms to empower, equip, and inspire others and I’d like to see more of us prioritize the well-being of our people. These are those that follow us and have shared missions and values. They’ve come to trust us. It’s our job to cultivate and nurture these relationships over-time. I know this can be committing. I want to give you 4 practical steps to help you be intentional about the relationships you build with your people. This is about growth and even more about impact.
Build your tribe and create a community. Find ways to connect your people to resources and each other. Be willing to serve and be a resident expert. Help to foster community and engagement by creating the platform for your people to connect and be a part of something greater.
Life is always shifting. Look at your own life and the changes that have occurred. How are these shifts impacting your business and how you lead your organization. If you are clear on your own personal values and how they align with what you’re doing, it makes it easier to connect with others and what they are going through. Clarity in your own values enables you to be subjective and focused towards those that you will uniquely serve.
Focus on existing subscribers and customers. Far too often we are focused on getting more customers, more followers, more subscribers, more members. What about those that have already bought in to what you have to offer? How are you staying connected with them and nurturing that relationship? Communication is key. Talk with them and find out what they need and want. Let them know that you are there and available for them, interested in listening to them, and value their connection.
Be an advocate. Practice challenging your people to push themselves and to go after what it is that they seek. Yes! Every brand has an aspiration aspect to it. What will yours be? This is a great opportunity for you to believe in your people. Encourage them even when they may not believe in or value themselves.
What influential impact will you have this year? I challenge you to commit to raising your intention on influencing others. You never know the lives that you miss out on impacting if you don’t.
Cheering you on!
Sharnell Weathersby
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