Influence… it’s powerful.

For some reason, the topic of influence has been on my mind lately.

I wanted to dive deeper into how influencing others and being influenced play a part in our lives and businesses.

How We Influence Others

As business owners, people are watching and listening to us (some more intently than others). We have a responsibility to a certain degree. How we conduct ourselves, our policies, follow-through, and style all factor into our ability to influence clients. If we are perceived as a true authority, our influence will naturally be stronger.

We can expand our sphere of influence by spreading our message through blogging, newsletters, guest posts, social media, speaking engagements, interviews, and webinars.

The more authoritative and consistent we are with our point of view, the greater the opportunity to significantly impact our niche. Staying within our messaging pillars helps establish us as experts in our field.

Others can also shape how our products or services are perceived.

Take the fashion world, for example. Designers often gift their goods (clothing, handbags, jewelry, etc.) to celebrities in hopes of being captured on camera, influencing buying decisions in a specific demographic. They also hire influencers for runway shows with the same purpose in mind.

Data Fact: According to a Nielsen study, 92% of consumers trust recommendations from individuals over brands, highlighting the immense power of personal influence.

 

How We Are Influenced

Consider this famous quote by motivational speaker Jim Rohn:

“We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.”

If that’s true, choosing our inner circle wisely becomes essential.

Think about it: if your circle is filled with people who complain, blame, make excuses, procrastinate, and play the victim, how do you think that affects your mindset, business, and decisions?

Do you think you’ll wake up each morning with an optimistic outlook, ready to forge ahead with vigor and fortitude? Probably not.

Conversely, if your tribe consists of positive, productive, humble, authentic, and caring individuals, a shared energy and motivational pull inspires similar qualities in you.

Does this mean you should distance yourself from those in a slump most days? Not necessarily. However, be mindful of who you spend your time with, the topics you engage in, and the media you consume. These factors significantly shape your thoughts, beliefs, and actions.

The Power of Influence

We are creatures of influence. We are leaders, followers, or sometimes both. Influence shapes every aspect of our lives—how we act, react, and present ourselves.

Your Turn

What traits would you choose to be around if you believed they could enhance your character, development, behavior, and brand?

Let me know in the comments below! I’d love to hear your wish list.

Until next time… breathe joy.