Welcome

Welcome to this weeks edition of Leadership Launchpad. One of the things that has struck me this past few weeks is that there are a lot of people within the world all trying to influence other or position themselves somewhere. But not many are doing this well. Too often they try and rely on their title over anything else or even their position.

But there is another way and a better way to work with influence.

Ever noticed how some people get their ideas heard without a single title to their name? It’s not luck, it’s influence. And you can build it too, starting now. Many assume you need "Manager" or "Director" on your badge to lead, but influence isn’t tied to a job title, it’s about trust, value, and connection. This week, we’re unpacking how to become the person others naturally turn to, no title required.

Why Influence Matters

Many people think influence comes with a title. Get promoted to manager, and suddenly everyone will listen. But here’s the reality: influence isn’t tied to your job description. It’s not about being the boss, it’s about how you connect with people, earn their trust, and bring value to the table.

Think about the colleagues you know who always seem to have a say, whose ideas get traction, or who others turn to for guidance. Are they always the ones with the big titles? Probably not. More often, they’re the ones who listen well, communicate clearly, and solve problems that matter. Influence is your ability to shape outcomes and inspire others to act, no matter where you sit in the org chart. It’s how you rally support for a project, bridge gaps between teams, or prove you’re ready for bigger opportunities.

Here’s where people often stumble: they assume that excelling at their job automatically builds influence. I once worked with someone who was a rock star at his role. Smart, hardworking, reliable. But his ideas rarely stuck. He wasn’t part of the bigger conversations, and no one saw him as a leader. Why? Because influence isn’t just about technical skills or effort. It’s about building relationships and showing up in ways that make others want to hear you out.

Let me share a quick story. Early in my career, I felt like my voice didn’t matter in meetings. I’d pitch ideas, but they’d fizzle out. Then one day, I tried something different. Instead of talking, I asked, “What’s one thing we’re missing here?” People paused, engaged, and suddenly I wasn’t just in the room. I was steering it. That small shift showed me that influence isn’t about having the loudest voice or the most answers; it’s about adding value in a way that sticks with people.

So, why does influence matter? Because it’s your ticket to making a real impact. It turns your ideas into action, strengthens your relationships, and signals leadership potential—without needing a title to back you up. Want to know how to build it? Keep reading for some practical steps.

My Take

When I joined my team a few years (and roles ago!), I noticed we struggled with organising projects. I took it upon myself to learn a new tool as well as investing in learning project management basics and started sharing quick tips with colleagues. Before long, people were coming to me for advice on streamlining their work. I didn’t have a fancy title, but my influence grew because I filled a gap. It hit me then: influence isn’t handed to you, it’s earned by adding value where it’s needed.

How to Build Influence (Without a Leadership Title):

1. Become a Go-To Person for Something Specific
   People respect those who solve problems or bring expertise. Lean into your strengths and become invaluable.

   • Action Step: Pick one skill or area to master, offer help or insights in it this week.

   • Think About This: When have you solved a team problem? How did it boost your influence?

2. Build Relationships (Because Influence is Built on Trust)
   Influence grows from connection, not force. People listen to those they trust.

   • Action Step: Help a colleague with something small this week, no strings attached.

   • Think About This: Who influences you at work? What earns them your trust?

3. Communicate Clearly and Confidently
   Clarity wins. Share ideas simply and frame them for the group’s benefit.

   • Action Step: In your next meeting, ask a clear, strategic question (e.g., "How does this fit our goals?").

   • Think About This: When did you struggle to be heard? What could you tweak next time?

4. Master the Art of Asking Great Questions
   Smart questions show engagement and big-picture thinking—they instantly raise your influence.

   • Action Step: Swap an opinion for a question like, "What’s the biggest risk here?"

   • Think About This: When has a question shifted a conversation? What made it work?

5. Influence by Taking Action (Not Just Talking)
   Lead by doing. Initiative and reliability build credibility fast.

   • Action Step: Tackle a small task this week without being asked.

   • Think About This: When did you act without permission? How did it change how others saw you?

Reflection Questions for This Week:

• In which specific situation or team do you want to boost your influence this month?

• Who in your organization has influence without a big title? What’s one thing they do you can try? (Maybe go and speak to them)

• What’s one small step you can take this week to build trust or add value?

Book Recommendation:

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini

Summary: Cialdini unpacks the psychology of influence with six principles anyone can use to persuade others, title or not.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Reciprocity: Give value first—people are more likely to listen after you’ve helped them.

2. Social Proof: Build credibility through small wins others can see.

3. Authority: Share expertise confidently to be seen as a leader.

Apply It: Use reciprocity this week—help a colleague before asking for their support.

And that’s a wrap for this week.

PS If you have liked this content then worth checking out my free leadership toolkit. Get it here.