By definition, influence is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.
When I read this definition, there are so many people that would fit into this definition and be considered an influencer. Some examples could be family, friends, teachers, managers, mentors, peers, and coaches to name a few. They share their lessons, ideas, and beliefs with us every day and influence us.
We are not only influenced by the people in our life at work and home, but also through marketing, social media, and the shows that we watch.
With so many influencers all around us, how do you decide what your own beliefs are? How do you decide what your own point of view will be on a subject? Is it really yours or the idea of someone else that has influenced you and you have adopted it?
It is good to step back and look at the thinking that you have as a leader.
You want to be viewed as a thought leader yourself, not just the person who shares what others think. Two of my clients have spent the time to look at the beliefs that they have and what do they want to share with their teams. We brainstormed ideas and they created their own leadership point of view. Now they can share the words to give this insight to their team, but also demonstrate it through their actions.