In the realm of professional relationships and leadership, building influence is an art that revolves around understanding and responding to three fundamental questions: Do I like you? Do I trust you? And, how can you help me? In this blog post, we delve into the significance of these questions and how answering them strategically can pave the way for impactful influence.
At the heart of building influence is the human element. People are more likely to be influenced by those they genuinely like. Establishing a personal connection goes beyond shared interests or affable conversations; it's about empathy, understanding, and authenticity.
Answering the "Do I like you?" question involves showcasing your genuine self, actively listening, and finding common ground. Authenticity builds bridges, fosters rapport, and lays the foundation for a positive and lasting connection. Whether through shared experiences, where we meet with others, humor, or simply being approachable, making an effort to be likable is a crucial step in building influence.
Trust is the bedrock of influence. Without trust, any attempt to influence others is likely to fall flat. Answering the "Do I trust you?" question involves consistently demonstrating reliability, honesty, and integrity.
Leaders who prioritize transparency, deliver on promises, and admit to mistakes when they occur earn the trust of their colleagues. Trust is a delicate commodity that takes time to build and can be shattered in an instant. Therefore, leaders must be intentional about cultivating trust through their actions, decisions, and communication.
In the professional realm, influence is often intertwined with the value one brings to the table. Answering the "How can you help me?" question involves showcasing your skills, expertise, and the tangible benefits you can offer to others.
This is not about self-promotion but about understanding the needs and aspirations of those around you. By actively seeking opportunities to contribute, solve problems, and support others in their endeavors, you position yourself as a valuable resource. Influence is a reciprocal exchange, and by consistently demonstrating your ability to contribute, you solidify your position as someone worth listening to.
Building influence is a nuanced process that requires a thoughtful approach to interpersonal dynamics. By proactively answering the three key questions – Do I like you? Do I trust you? How can you help me? – individuals can cultivate meaningful connections, establish credibility, and position themselves as influential leaders.
Remember, influence is not about manipulation but about creating a positive impact. Whether you're a leader, a team member, or sales professional, taking the time to genuinely connect with others, build trust through your actions, and consistently provide value will set you on the path to becoming a person of influence in your professional sphere.
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“Businesses wonder why it is still hard to be thought of as the brand of choice with the best customers and top employees. How can our business make more profitable transactions and stay out of the commodity battle with low profits? How can we land and keep top talent in our organization with the salary wars. Kevin teaches your sales and leadership teams how to build the key ingredient to be successful with their relationships and take your goals to the next level with high levels of engagement.
Kevin’s website: www.kevinsidebottom.com
Kevin’s email: kevin@kevinsidebottom.com