I recently read an incredible book called “Quiet Influence” by Jocelyn Davis, and I have to say, it has completely shifted my perspective on leadership. Davis explores the idea of quiet influence, which she defines as, “Using our strengths to make a positive impact while leading in a way that feels true to ourselves.”
The Traditional Notion of Influence
The traditional notion of influence, which is often associated with loudness and charisma, is outdated and not as effective in today’s business landscape. Instead, Davis argues that quiet influence, based on authenticity, humility, and empathy, is much more effective..
One of the book’s most important takeaways is that quiet influence is not about being passive or avoiding conflict. Instead, quiet leaders are often more effective at navigating difficult situations than their “loud” and “charismatic” counterparts because they are able to build deeper, more meaningful relationships with their teams and create a culture of collaboration and trust.
Self Awareness
Self-awareness is another critical aspect of quiet influence. According to Davis, we cannot lead effectively if we do not understand ourselves. By understanding our own strengths and weaknesses, we can lead in a way that feels authentic and true to ourselves. This means taking the time to reflect on our own leadership style and being willing to make adjustments as needed.
Presence
One of the most powerful concepts in the book is the idea of “presence.” Presence is a potent form of influence that comes from within and radiates out. By cultivating presence, we can become more effective leaders and inspire others to follow us. It’s not about being showy or flamboyant, but rather about being grounded, centered, and fully engaged in the moment.
Purpose and Intention
Ultimately, quiet influence is about leading with purpose and intention. It’s about focusing on the needs of our teams and businesses, and using our strengths to create a positive impact. It’s not always easy, but it’s a leadership style that can have a profound impact on the success of our businesses.
If you’re looking to lead with authenticity and empathy, I highly recommend “Quiet Influence” by Jocelyn Davis. The concepts in this book can help you build deeper, more meaningful relationships within your team, create a culture of collaboration and trust, and ultimately drive your business to success.
If you want to learn more, connect with me, let’s chat!