Leading With Substance And Style

What are the makings of an effective influencer?

- Devendra Agochiya

To be an effective influencer, you need both substance and style. Without a solid foundation of credibility, even the most interpersonally adept leaders will fall short. On the flip side, highly credible people can struggle with influence if they do not understand the interpersonal dynamics that are at play.

Some of the key factors are discussed below. These factors may either work as unique and solitary factor or in certain combinations.

Charisma and inspiration: By far, the most successful trait-driven influence is due to the charisma of a person. Charisma is really a complex process—an interaction between the qualities of the charismatic person or leader, people around them or the followers, their needs, level of identification with the person/leader, and the situation, that may have inherent need for change. The emphasis is, of course, on how they communicate with the people, appeal to them and build trust for them to get influenced.

Charisma is related to inspiration and the strength of their moral and dynamic personality. Generally, they have a vision for life or a cause that appeals to the people. There is one problem though. Once the charismatic leader or person goes away, the influence may start wearing off, unless the baton is passed to another person, with equal or even less charismatic qualities.

Becoming charismatic involves paying careful attention to how you interact with other people and ensuring that you develop the traits that make up charisma, positive and appealing to others. Charismatic people use their skills to get people on their side, perhaps from a professional, ideological or social point of view.