Influence That Moves People and Grows Your Business

Brian Tracy captured it perfectly:

“There is only one way to get anybody to do anything. And that is by making the other person want to do it.”

Whether you are creating spreadsheets, negotiating with clients, or leading your team, the best outcomes happen when people act from genuine conviction rather than obligation. Results produced from the heart yield greater and longer-lasting impact than those delivered out of pressure or obligation.

An employee who enjoys their role tends to perform at a much higher level than one who simply shows up out of necessity. Similarly, a customer who truly believes in your product is more likely to become a loyal advocate than someone who made a purchase out of sympathy or a hard sell.

This is the power of influence. Not manipulation. Not coercion. Influence.

When leaders develop the ability to inspire action, whether among team members, stakeholders, or clients, they position their organisation for exponential growth. This skill is not optional. It is essential. And within the framework of Social and Emotional Intelligence, it is known as Powerful Influencing Skills.

What Are Powerful Influencing Skills?

This competency belongs to the quadrant of Relationship Management. It is defined as wielding effective tactics for persuasion, helping others want to say “yes” because the message resonates with their values, needs, and beliefs.

People who demonstrate Powerful Influencing Skills typically:

• Win people over with authenticity and relevance.
• Fine-tune their communication to meet the listener’s perspective.
• Use thoughtful strategies, including indirect influence, to build alignment.
• Engage others with compelling stories that capture attention and convey meaningful insights.
• Create memorable experiences to drive home a point.
• Persuade and inspire others to take action aligned with shared goals.

On the other end of the scale, those who have not developed this skill often:

• Operate in isolation or work against the group’s flow.
• Fail to leave a lasting or positive impression.
• Struggle to persuade others or unite people under a shared vision.
• Speak without consideration for the audience’s needs or motivations.
• Crumble under pressure when ideas are challenged.
• Appear disconnected, uninspiring, or lacking in credibility.
  
  

Why This Skill Matters for Leaders

Influence is not about power or position; it is about connection.

You might have authority over your team, or persuasive tactics to attract new customers. But if your ability to influence stops at authority or strategy, your results will remain limited. Without powerful influencing skills, your business might operate, but it will not stand out. Over time, it might stall altogether.

On the other hand, leaders who influence with purpose, empathy, and clarity are catalysts for transformation. They mobilise people. They strengthen relationships. They drive results.

This competency is a game-changer. A leader who can influence with integrity and effectiveness becomes a powerhouse in any setting.

How to Increase Your Influence and Multiply Your Impact

Building powerful influencing skills takes intentional effort and consistent practice. Below are practical development tips to help you strengthen this essential competency and become a more effective leader:

• Identify influence opportunities. Look for situations where you can guide outcomes. Observe colleagues who influence well and learn from their approach.
• Build rapport. Relationships are the foundation of influence. Show genuine interest, build trust, and listen well.
• Adapt your approach. Know when to assert, when to suggest, and when to ask. Influence is not one-size-fits-all.
• Understand what motivates others. Tailor your message to reflect what matters to the other person.
• Plan your message. Be clear about your objective and how to communicate it effectively.
• Frame with purpose. Present your ideas from the listener’s point of view so the message resonates.
• Prepare for objections. Anticipate resistance and respond with thoughtful, respectful explanations.
• Use credible support. Back up your message with data, stories, or endorsements from respected voices.
• Make your thinking visible. Help people understand your logic. When they grasp your why, they will follow your what.

And finally, consider partnering with a coach.

Many great leaders have mentors and coaches who sharpen their skills and expand their influence. Working with a certified coach in Social and Emotional Intelligence provides clarity, accountability, and expert guidance as you develop your influence from the inside out.

A Human Advantage in the Age of AI

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the way we work. Yet, there is one area it cannot replace—human relationships. Influence requires emotional nuance, trust, empathy, and connection. These are uniquely human.

Use technology to support your communication. But when it comes to influencing others to align with a shared vision or take meaningful action, that will always be your role to play.

Powerful influencing skills are not just tools, they are a mindset. Develop them, refine them, and apply them, and watch as your leadership, team, and organisation rise to new levels of impact and influence.

We Are Here To Help

At People Builders, we believe powerful influence is not about control—it is about connection. Our expert trainers and coaches will help you and your team develop this critical competency, along with other Social and Emotional Intelligence skills that fuel growth, collaboration, and lasting impact.

Whether you are looking to improve your leadership presence, increase buy-in, or inspire action across your organisation, we are here to support your journey.

Contact us today for a quick chat and discover how we can partner with you to strengthen your influence and expand your leadership reach.