Influence with Impact: Earning Trust and Driving Results

Photo by Christina Morillo

hat is Influence in Leadership?

Influence is the ability to create high impact without overtly stating the intent or desired outcome. True influence isn’t about authority or control—it’s about fostering collaboration, shaping perspectives, and inspiring action in a way that feels organic rather than forced.

A Real-World Example of Influence in Action

Recently, I recognized the need for a shift in strategy to meet revenue targets. Instead of dictating changes or presenting a fully formed plan, I took a different approach—one rooted in engagement and collaboration.

I invited my team to a meeting designed to set the tone for the year ahead. Instead of a rigid agenda, I created an environment that encouraged openness. The meeting was held in the morning, after traffic had cleared, to reduce stress. There were snacks and lunch—small but intentional choices that made the gathering feel welcoming.

Rather than pushing my own ideas, I highlighted two suggestions that had come from team members. I asked their permission to share them with the group, and they were happy to have their ideas recognized. This set the stage for a conversation where the team felt ownership over the solutions.

To keep engagement high, I introduced a gamified element—presenting key statistics and having the team guess the answers before revealing them. Sales representatives thrive on competition, and this approach kept the energy up while reinforcing the challenges and opportunities ahead.

As a group, we dissected what would and wouldn’t work, aligning on a new strategy. These commitments were then woven into their upcoming performance reviews, ensuring accountability. The best part? The ideas generated in that meeting have now become part of our daily vernacular when tracking progress toward our goals.

Common Mistakes That Undermine Influence

Many leaders make the mistake of thinking influence means pushing their own agenda. Here are three key pitfalls to avoid:

1. Telling people what to do – No one likes to be dictated to. Instead, involve people in shaping the direction.

2. Taking credit for others’ ideas – Even if you refine or elevate an idea, always acknowledge the original contributor. If appropriate, do so publicly.

3. Leading with an agenda rather than authenticity – People see through attempts to manipulate outcomes. Confidence comes from being open, honest, and willing to listen.

   
   

The Role of Authenticity and Credibility

Authenticity is the foundation of trust, and trust is essential for influence. Leaders don’t need to have all the answers—what they need is the confidence to admit when they don’t. When people see that you’re honest, transparent, and willing to collaborate, they’re more likely to buy into your vision.

It’s also okay to be vulnerable. Over time, this builds credibility. When leaders consistently show up with integrity, they earn the right to ask for bigger commitments from their teams—because those teams know they’re working with someone who values and supports them.

A Practical Strategy to Strengthen Influence

One of the most powerful ways to build influence is to ask for—and apply—feedback. Feedback isn’t always explicit; it often reveals itself in engagement levels, performance, and relationships. The best leaders approach influence with an experimental mindset, continuously adapting based on what resonates with their teams.

Come to conversations with curiosity rather than a predetermined agenda. When you prioritize understanding over directing, you naturally become a leader people want to follow.

Influence isn’t about authority—it’s about earning trust and driving results through authenticity, collaboration, and adaptability. Take a moment to reflect on your leadership approach. How are you fostering influence within your team or organization? What small shifts can you make today to build stronger trust and engagement?

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences or challenges with influence in the comments below or reach out to continue the conversation.