5 Types of Influence Every Woman Leader Must Master

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

Most people consider it a singular concept—something you either have or don’t. Influence is far more nuanced than that, especially in leadership.

There are actually several types of influence, each playing a crucial role in how we make an impact.

In our work at HNS, we’ve observed that the most successful women leaders don’t rely on one type of influence—they harness multiple forms to drive change and inspire those around them.

So, what sets these influential leaders apart?

Here are the five types of influence that every woman leader needs to master, and insights that might just change the way you think about your own leadership approach.

1. Personal Influence: Leading with Authenticity

Personal influence is all about the power of connection. We’ve seen women leaders excel by using their emotional intelligence and communication skills to build trust and foster strong relationships. One example we’ve seen is how a leader transformed her department by connecting with her team on a personal level. By being approachable and genuinely interested in her team’s well-being, she created a supportive environment that led to increased morale, communication, and productivity. How are you building authentic connections within your team?

2. Expert Influence: Commanding Respect Through Knowledge

Expert influence comes from being a recognized authority in your field. HNS has worked with women who have become go-to resources in their industries by continuously developing their expertise. These leaders aren’t just knowledgeable—they are the experts everyone turns to when they need answers. Their deep understanding of their fields allows them to guide strategic decisions and influence company direction. What steps are you taking to position yourself as an expert in your field?

3. Relational Influence: Building Strong Networks

Relational influence is about the connections you make and the networks you build. We’ve observed leaders who leverage their strong relationships to create networks of allies across their organizations. By mentoring others and collaborating effectively, they build support systems that amplify their influence. This ability to build and nurture relationships not only propels their careers forward but also makes them catalysts for change within their companies. How are you using your network to enhance your influence?

4. Transformational Influence: Inspiring Change and Innovation

Transformational influence is about leading with vision and inspiring others to reach new heights. We’ve seen women leaders who excel in this area by leading their teams through major organizational changes with a clear and compelling vision of the future. Their passion and commitment inspire their teams to embrace change and work towards common goals. How are you inspiring your team to embrace change and innovation?

5. Positional Influence: Leveraging Authority with Impact

Positional influence stems from the power that comes with a leadership role. We’ve worked with women who understand that influence isn’t just about authority—it’s about using that authority to make a positive impact. These leaders combine their positional power with a deep understanding of their team’s needs and a commitment to inclusivity, using their positions to advocate for their teams and push for positive changes. How are you using your leadership position to advocate for your team and drive impact?

Influence isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept—it’s a powerful combination of different types, each contributing to your ability to lead effectively and make a lasting impact. The most successful women leaders understand how to blend these types of influence to navigate challenges, drive innovation, and inspire those around them. By becoming aware of the various ways you can wield influence, you open up new possibilities for growth and success.

At Her New Standard, we’re dedicated to helping women leaders tap into and refine these different types of influence, empowering them to lead with confidence and create meaningful change in their organizations.