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When you read the word “influence,” what comes to mind?

Advice? Mentoring? Svengali? An unhappy baby on an airplane?

Influence is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.

As leaders of ourselves or others, we have the ability to influence. It seems that influence, with the right motives, in alignment with the values of an individual or organization has the greatest impact. In a recent meeting, George Hoskins, EVP of Community Solutions Group for the John Maxwell enterprise, shared the impact they have had in multiple communities around the world. The key was gaining influence, which began, of course, with connection, then having the right motives and finding common ground in the shared values and desire for impact in each community.

Influence, when correctly aimed, with the right motive requires one more component: willing participant(s). There is always a temptation to exert influence over another for a purpose that serves us but not necessarily the other person. Those are the leaders none of us want to work with, and if we find ourselves in that situation, it can become a frustrating situation to try and extract ourselves from.

John C. Maxwell says that Leadership is influence, and you and I as leaders have to ensure we use ours ethically. Influence that passes the test of motive, values and willing participants positively impacts an individual or a community.

Here are a few questions to ask ourselves as we look to expand our influence and impact:

1. What is my motive?
2. Does my motive serve me, along with the other person?
3. Do we both value the same outcome?
4. Will the impact we are targeting serve the greater good long term?

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Are you looking to increase your influence and effectiveness? Click here to learn more about the Maxwell Method of Communications Impact Report.

As the CEO of Strength Leader Development, Deb Ingino is a highly sought-after international executive mentor, coach, trainer and speaker. Deb is well versed in global business operations and helps business leaders and their teams to discover and leverage their strengths, so they can create highly collaborative teams that deliver great results. With a refreshingly direct style, Deb helps leaders and their teams to deliver profitable results. Connect with Deb to learn more about her mentorship and coaching programs to equip you with advanced strategies to elevate your results.