Leadership, in many ways, comes down to our ability to articulate a vision and then in turn our ability to influence others around that vision.
Sounds easy, of course, and yet we know in our lived experience that it's actually very hard. Noted professor Jonah Berger, in his recent book Magic Words, suggests that there are actually a range of scientifically based methods for increasing our ability to influence outcomes. Among his recommendations is the simple idea that asking questions and asking for advice are great ways to build influence--both, in the end, suggest that we are interested in other people and by showing interest we're more likely to influence.
Sounds simple. Possibly profound.
Clark Twiddy, President of Twiddy & Company, is the author of our Leadership Corner, published on our blog the third Tuesday of each month. He can be reached at ctwiddy@twiddy.com.
