How to Be a More Influential Leader

Influence is an essential skill for any leader. Whether you’re guiding a team, driving organizational change, or securing stakeholder buy-in, your ability to inspire action can make or break your success. But influence isn’t about authority—it’s about intention.

Many leaders fall into the trap of reactive communication. They focus on checking off tasks instead of strategically shaping their message to achieve the desired outcome. Leaders must shift their mindset and develop intentional communication strategies to truly influence others.

Why Do Leaders Need to Be Influential? 

Leaders do more than make decisions—they also convince others to support and act on them. Without influence, even the best ideas can fall flat. Influential leaders can motivate teams, gain buy-in for change, and create a culture of trust and engagement. They help people see the bigger picture, navigate challenges, and work toward shared goals. Influence enables leaders to align diverse perspectives, foster collaboration, and drive meaningful results—all without relying on formal authority alone.

What Makes a Leader Influential?

Influential leaders aren’t just great speakers—they’re great connectors. They:

• Understand their audience and tailor their message accordingly.
• Communicate with clarity and purpose, ensuring their intent is well-received.
• Align people toward a common goal by framing ideas in a way that resonates.
• Overcome objections with confidence, turning resistance into opportunity.

If you want to elevate your influence, it’s not just about what you say—it’s about how you say it and why.

Influence with Intention

One of the most effective ways to become a more influential leader is by being proactive in your communication. Instead of simply relaying information, think about the action you want others to take. In Influence With Intention, a Crestcom L.E.A.D.R. module featuring communication expert Andy Bounds, leaders learn to:

• Communicate effectively to ensure their message lands effectively.
• Demonstrate techniques that drive the ideal behaviors and outcomes they seek.
• Overcome objections and turn challenges into conversations that lead to action.

By focusing on intentional influence, leaders can break through resistance, inspire teams, and gain buy-in more effectively.

Practical Strategies to Strengthen Your Influence

• Start With the End in Mind
  Before speaking, ask yourself: What do I want my audience to think, feel, or do after this conversation? Craft your message with that outcome in mind.
• Frame Your Message Around Benefits
  People are more likely to be influenced when they see what’s in it for them. Instead of stating facts, explain how your idea benefits the listener and aligns with their priorities.
• Listen More Than You Speak
  Influence isn’t just about talking—it’s about understanding. Before presenting your perspective, ask team members questions, acknowledge concerns, and make others feel heard.
• Anticipate and Overcome Objections
  Resistance is natural. Prepare for objections by identifying and proactively addressing potential concerns in your communication.
• Leverage the Power of Storytelling
  Facts tell, but stories sell. Strategic storytelling is a vital skill for any leader. People remember stories, especially when they illustrate the impact of an idea or decision. Use real-life examples to make your message compelling.
• Demonstrate Credibility and Confidence
  People are influenced by those they trust. Show confidence in your ideas, back them up with data or experience, and confidently deliver them.

Take Your Influence to the Next Level

Becoming an influential leader isn’t just about improving your communication—it’s about refining your leadership approach. Crestcom’s training programs provide hands-on learning experiences that help managers develop key leadership skills, including intentional influence.

Ready to Lead with Greater Influence?

Discover how Crestcom L.E.A.D.R. can help you and your team develop the skills to become more influential leaders. Find a trainer near you to find out more!