“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek
In today’s fast-paced business world, leadership is no longer just about making strategic decisions or enforcing policies. It’s about inspiring, influencing, and earning trust—a skill that separates great leaders from the rest. Furthermore, a good leader builds strong influence. Let’s look at influence in leadership…
As Robert Greene explains in The 48 Laws of Power, Law 43: Work on the Hearts and Minds of Others highlights a crucial leadership truth: effective leaders appeal to emotions, not just logic.
Are Leaders Born or Made? The Science Says They Are Made.
There’s a long-standing debate about whether leadership is an inherent trait or a learned skill. Research overwhelmingly supports the idea that leaders are made, not born. A study published in Leadership Quarterly found that only about 30% of leadership ability is genetic, while 70% comes from experience, learning, and personal development (Avolio & Hannah, 2008).
Furthermore, the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) emphasizes that leadership skills—such as emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and effective communication—can be developed over time with the right training and mindset. This means that anyone, regardless of their starting point, can become a powerful and influential leader by investing in learning and growth.
Beyond Logic: The Emotional Connection in Leadership
Facts and figures may inform decisions, but emotions drive actions. Take Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Fireside Chats, for example. During times of crisis, he didn’t just present policies—he reassured, empathized, and inspired. His ability to connect emotionally made him a leader people trusted and followed.
So, how can today’s leaders win hearts and minds in a digital, hybrid workplace?
Applying Law 43: Leading with Influence in the Modern Business World
✅ Inspiring Leadership Over Commanding Authority
Gone are the days of top-down management. Great leaders don’t just give orders—they inspire. By aligning with shared values and a common mission, they build buy-in that transcends mere compliance.
✅ The Role of Storytelling in Business
Whether you’re a CEO addressing your company, a startup founder pitching to investors, or a manager guiding your team, storytelling is your most powerful tool. Facts persuade, but stories inspire. Steve Jobs didn’t just sell technology—he sold a vision that made people believe in thinking differently.
✅ Empathy as a Leadership Superpower
Emotional intelligence is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. The best leaders listen, empathize, and foster psychological safety. When people feel valued, they go the extra mile not because they have to, but because they want to.
✅ Winning Over Customers Through Emotional Branding
Consumers no longer just buy products or services—they invest in brands that align with their emotions and values. Companies like Nike, Tesla, and Airbnb succeed because they sell a vision and a lifestyle, not just a product.
Final Thoughts: Leading with Influence, Not Force
If you want to be a powerful and effective leader, build your leadership, don’t rely on authority – cultivate influence. Understand what motivates, excites, and resonates with your team, clients, and stakeholders. When people feel emotionally invested, they support your vision not out of obligation, but out of genuine belief.
Ready to Elevate Your Leadership?
True leadership is evidence-based, people-focused, and emotionally intelligent. If you’re ready to take your leadership skills to the next level, Mentor EU’s Evidence-Based Leadership Development Programme can help you master influence, communication, and emotional intelligence.
📩 Contact us today to learn how you can lead with influence—not just authority!
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