How can you lead with influence?

'Fight for the things that you care about but do it in a way that will lead others to join you' - Ruth B-G

How can you work with your circle of influence to further your vision?

There is a fine line between fighting the fight, and not isolating those from your cause that could be your greatest asset.

Sometimes the very ideology or systems you are fighting are the ones that include the greatest structures of influence that can support you.

In this article, I will be sharing how to navigate that fine line - both inside of your mind and also within your circle of influence with 5 actionable things you can do to guide you on this journey.

1. Remember that conflict is not always a negative.

In my work, I spend many an hour planting the seeds of discussion that could lead to a conversation of conflict. This is because, in striving for female empowerment and equality in the boardroom, I am very often talking with men who are not sure that there is a need for what I do!

Therefore there will be a natural conflict.

I see that as progress - because if I can engage in a conversation that has conflict, and steer myself out to the other side with dignity for myself, and also respect for the other person, there is movement.

If we choose not to get into conversations with potential for conflict, nothing will ever change, and no one will know what you stand for.

2. Everyone has a reason for their beliefs - and you will never change someone's thinking unless they want to change.

Remember not to waste your time with those who are clearly not open to adult debate and insight. Remember that those who don't see eye to eye with you are not necessarily wrong or right - and let it go. Focus on where you can engage influence and impact.

Learn to recognise those people who are open to being challenged, and focus there first.

3. Collaborate - don't compete

This is all about connecting with people who are in your direct line of work, with the same vision. Some people refer to this as a competitor. NOT ME. If there is someone out there working to improve equality in the workforce - I want to do MORE with them not LESS!

You will inspire one another through collaboration and have a much wider net of influence than if you are on your own.

4. Build your foundations

Read the books, do the self development and don't expect everything to land in your lap. Putting yourself out there as a leader can be a lonely job, especially if you are influencing change. That is why it is SO important to do the self-work. To re-calibrate as often as you can back to your mission and vision.

Spending time inside your own head, exposing your thinking on paper is an easy way to secure that foundational work. It never stops though - so don't expect to do this for a month and it's job done!

Make your self work a priority rather than an outcome based on frustration and burnout.

5. Believe in your vision

Belief is infectious. Just look at religion. If you believe so strongly in your vision that no one can knock you, people will naturally follow.

If you found this useful, or have anything you would like to add to the list, please let us know at Lucienne Coaching, either by leaving a comment below or getting in touch at [email protected].