SPRING 2025
perform their actions because they believe your source of power could result in consequences if they do not, or rewards if they do. What is Influence? Influence is the ability to change how someone else behaves or thinks based on servant leadership instead of authority. Unlike power, influence doesn’t allow you to directly impact someone’s actions or behavior just by telling them to do something. Instead, you can influence others into changing the way they behave, think, or act using servant leadership—behaviors that make people want to follow you because of your influence. Influence is Leadership Influence invites people to follow whereas power forces people to follow. Big difference. Influence is leadership whereas power is management. Influence creates a thriving, trusting culture whereas power creates a toxic culture of micro- management and fear. The exciting reality is that everybody can be a leader and influence in all directions no matter what job title or experi- ence. That’s something to truly get excited about and embrace. The most common way people influence is with knowledge. We live in a society where we all think we know a lot about everything. Everybody has an opinion. However, you can influence with little knowledge and minimal education. Two of the most impactful and inspiring ways to influence are by praising others and active listening. It’s free, limitless and empowering! This is a huge growth opportunity within most leadership journeys. Unfortunately, many are reluctant to influence using genuine praise and by asking thoughtful questions. There is a big difference between influence and power. Inspiring others with influence leads to great innovation, belonging and impact.
WE CAN
1. Persuasion (Information, Data) 2. Listening (seeking feedback and collective input) 3. Inspire (lead by example) 4. Coaching & Mentoring (1:1) 5. Positively Talking About Others (genuine praise)
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Bill Marklein
Bill is an author, thought leader,
and the founder of Employ Humanity LLC—a leadership development and culture design company that provides inspiring leadership courses and seminars. You can reach him at sayhello@ employhumanity.com
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