Executive Influence: Key Strategies
Executive Influence is not just a measure of one’s ability to be a leader but a blend of temperament, competencies, and skills that inspire confidence among peers and subordinates alike. It’s about being the leader people want to follow, indicating one’s potential to achieve greatness.
The Three Pillars of Executive Influence
Our Style
Your style should align with how others perceive you within your role in the organization. A mismatch can lead to perceptions of inefficacy, while alignment enhances effectiveness.
Substance
Substance is manifested through your social presence and demeanor, projecting an image of maturity and the ability to leverage personal virtues as a leader. Without substance, style alone might render a leader “half-skilled.”
Good Character
At its core, character involves the personal traits and values that define us. It represents the foundational aspects of a leader’s personal and professional identity.
Building Your Executive Influence
Articulating Vision
A compelling vision is crucial. It must be ambitious yet appropriate for your level of seniority, inspiring confidence and driving progress.
Understanding Perception
Awareness of how others perceive you is critical as you climb the corporate ladder, where dependency on others increases.
Enhancing Communication
Effective communication is fundamental. Regular feedback and dedicated effort in improving your communication skills are essential.
Etiquette and Tone
Understanding and respecting business etiquette, and maintaining a clear, pleasant, and confident tone in your communications are vital for a strong executive presence.
The Organizational Benefits of Executive Influence
- Enhanced Productivity: Executive influence presence fosters a collective goal orientation that enhances group efforts.
- Improved Relationships: It facilitates both professional and personal growth, creating a collaborative work environment.
- Effective Communication: A robust executive presence ensures open and honest communication, which is pivotal for productivity.
Expressing Core Values and Intentions
Few leaders openly discuss their core values, yet doing so can significantly enhance executive Influence. Expressing intentions, feelings, and values candidly can help in forming genuine connections and building trust within the team.
Conclusion
Developing an effective executive influence presence is a dynamic and ongoing process that demands self-awareness, constant learning, and adaptation. By focusing on style, substance, and character, leaders can cultivate an aura that not only inspires confidence but also drives meaningful change within their organizations.
