Consider two professionals: the first, despite having significant positional power unable to create a vibrant lively environment and a voluntary commitment to team goals. And the other who has no position power yet able to foster en environment where people act with commitment to purpose. Whats the difference between the two? The answer lies with Martin Luther King Jr.
Why do you think Martin Luther Kings' 1963 - "I have a dream" speech - a most distinct symbol of leadership influence in Modern History actually moved masses and resulted in a remarkable change in the social reality of his times?
Was it because of the singleness of Kings purpose or clarity of his message? Or was it because Mr.King spoke to the values of his contemporaries?
Whatever be the case, King got a lot of people to willingly do what they might otherwise have found difficult to commit themselves to- which is - put up a strong and united fight aginst discrimination. As as result Kings "influence" influences us even now in 2012.
We live in a time when its absolutely critical for us to posses the ability to influence in our role as a leader - be it at work or in our personal lives. This is so because organizations and relationships have changed. I shall confine my discussion to organizations predominantly.
The most important difference in which organisations are managed now versus earlier - is in the use of influence and not control to motivate people. One of the the reasons for this in the shift form labor intensive to knowledge intensive industry. Often employees dealing with knowledge/skills possess unique information that only they know about about- they are in control and if they don't voluntary contribute, none will know. If you use position power, although you may be able to bring about compliance you may not be able to inspire commitment.
Commitment can be inspired only through influence. So we come back to influence. What is influence?
In the context of work relationships while control is the use of force, influence is the use of good communication, persuasion and respectful-harmonious relationships to get things done. Persuasion is when you use logic/evidence to communicate. Neither influence nor persuasion involves, power tactics, bullying, being pushy or coercing. Instead they are characterized by the principles of equality, care and mutual respect. They may be used to inspire, motivate, sell ideas or to empower others.
I'd like to ask you, what do you think are powers you or your respected leaders/friends posses which agrees with you as acceptable sources of influence? An example may be "credibility". Please reflect and share.
