Thursday, February 18, 2016
LEADERSHIP - THE ART OF INFLUENCING OTHERS
"The
key to successful leadership is influence, not authority" - Ken Blanchard
Regardless
of your role in an organization, you need to persuade others to your point of
view.
Being
able to win people's cooperation is a critical skill for any business
professional. In fact, some say leadership means the ability to influence.
The good
news is that influence is a skill that can be learned. It requires paying
attention to the following important principles:
View your
idea from your listener's perspective(s). Before you open your mouth, consider
the impact of what you propose on your listeners. Will this inconvenience them?
Frighten them? Cause an increase in work load? When you see things from the
perspective of the other person, you become more sensitive.
Look for
common ground. People are less resistant when you can show them that your idea
considers their way of thinking. Your idea can help them gain what is important
to them.
Thoughtfully
and logically outline what you want your listener to do. Your job is to order,
clarify and intensify for your listeners.
Illustrate
your message so people can see it and hear it
Resist
saying too much. Follow the Rule of Three- three main ideas, not ten
Avoid
acronyms and buzz words that blur meaning. Steve Jobs said, "When ideas
are simply explained, decisions are easy."
Demonstrate
value. Show listeners why an idea is appropriate, necessary and in their best
interests. What proof can you offer to show your idea is worth it? Define and
quantify benefits, not just for the organization, but for the individual.
Be
yourself. Be genuine, sincere, and approachable. Demonstrate openness through
your body language. Pay attention to crossed arms, clenched fists, and intense
facial expressions. Watch the tone of your voice. Little things matter and will
be noticed.
Invite
questions. Carefully listen. Show you really want to understand any concerns.
Listen without interrupting or talking over. Avoid patronizing statements.
Validate or acknowledge the other person's way of thinking. Then, find the best
way to answer without being arrogant.
Be brief
Inspire.
Help people to believe. Passion is everything in the influence game. You can't
inspire unless you are inspiring. Feel your idea. Taste it. Passion causes a
tidal wave!
Think
Steve Jobs. Project a commanding presence. Look, act and sound confident.
Influencing
others doesn't happen by accident. It takes carefully paying attention to what
you say and how you say it.
Posted in
Business presentations Conference presentations Facilitating meetings Presentation skills training Public speaking Sales presentations
by effectivecommunication.com.au
