Becoming an Influencer of Change: Insights from "Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change

In today's fast-paced world, the ability to inspire and motivate behavioral changes is essential, whether in the workplace, at home, or within communities

"Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change, 2nd Edition," authored by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler and published by McGraw-Hill Education in 2013, provides valuable insights and practical techniques for becoming an influencer of positive change. 

In this article, we will delve into the key concepts of the book and explore how to apply them in various contexts to drive meaningful behavioral change.

Leadership as Influence

"Influencer" emphasizes that leadership is fundamentally about influencing others to change their behavior in ways that lead to significant outcomes, whether for organizations, neighborhoods, or the broader society. It posits that addressing many of the complexities in our world doesn't necessarily require more technology, philosophy, or theory; instead, it calls for a focus on changing how people do things.

The Three Keys to Influence

To effectively influence behavioral change, the book outlines three key actions:

1. Focus and Measure: The importance of setting clear goals and establishing measurable metrics cannot be overstated. Without a well-defined target and quantifiable progress markers, it's challenging to rally individuals around a cause or track the success of your efforts.

2. Target Vital Behaviors: Rather than attempting to modify numerous behaviors, focus on identifying a few critical actions that can yield substantial results. Selecting these vital behaviors strategically is crucial.

3. Engage Six Sources of Influence: This key action involves understanding and leveraging six sources of influence that align with personal, social, and structural motivation and ability to take action. These sources are essential in comprehending why people exhibit certain behaviors and how to guide them toward change.

Engaging Six Sources of Influence

A common trait among successful influencers is their ability to overdetermine change. This means they don't rely on a single strategy but rather employ multiple methods to reverse undesirable behaviors. These six sources of influence include:

1. Personal Motivation: Influencers can motivate others to undertake tasks they previously resisted by providing choices, creating direct experiences, telling meaningful stories, and turning vital behaviors into enjoyable activities.

2. Personal Ability: To foster personal ability, influencers should encourage consistent practice of vital behaviors and provide ways for individuals to assess their progress.

3. Social Motivation: Leaders can wield significant influence through social motivation. Demonstrating belief in new behaviors, engaging respected opinion leaders, and ensuring the right people observe, coach, and provide support can be pivotal.

4. Social Ability: Collaboration and teamwork are essential when vital behaviors require interdependence. Empowering individuals with various abilities and turning experienced individuals into trainers, coaches, and mentors can promote profound change.

5. Structural Motivation: Reward and incentive systems should align with desired behaviors. Connect rewards with behaviors, provide social support, and offer small, immediate rewards for progress.

6. Structural Ability: Altering the physical environment can make behavior change easier and even more inevitable. Changing the layout, providing cues and clues, and making good behavior more accessible are strategies for structural ability.

Becoming an Effective Influencer

To become an effective influencer, it's crucial to integrate these six sources of influence and commit to a comprehensive action plan. Trivial solutions won't suffice. Here are some actionable insights for aspiring influencers:

1. Give Your All: Effective influencers commit wholeheartedly to their cause, demonstrating genuine passion and dedication.

2. Reward Systems: When implementing reward systems, consider what types of rewards would be most appreciated and avoid causing resentment among others.

3. Optimal Conditions: Scan the environment and create opportunities for creative conversation and collaboration, removing impediments when necessary.

4. Don't Go It Alone: Enlist respected partners to help communicate messages for change, fostering solidarity and easing concerns.

5. Make Change Inevitable: Integrate enough sources of influence to make change unavoidable, ensuring that people have the necessary resources and removing obstacles.

"Influencer: The New Science of Leading Change, 2nd Edition" provides valuable insights into becoming an influencer of positive change. By focusing on key actions, engaging the six sources of influence, and adopting practical strategies, individuals can become effective leaders who drive meaningful behavioral change. Whether in the workplace, at home, or within communities, the principles outlined in this book empower individuals to make a lasting impact on the world around them.

What is your thought about leading change?