Influence does not just go from the top down. Anyone can gain influence in others lives regardless of position, age, or status. It’s important to try to gain influence as early as possible wherever you are because that influence can be carried with you whoever you go. Here are four qualities every millennial should possess in order to gain the influence they so desire from both their peers and superiors
1. Humility
Nobody likes a know it all. Even though the internet can provide us with all the answers we think we need, there’s still a lot about life and leadership that we do not know. There’s a saying that states, “with age comes wisdom,” and that’s as true now as it was 100 years ago. Learn well and learn quickly from those in positions over you.
2. Patience
If you’re like me, you want things instantaneously. Sadly, influence is built over time. Learn to be patient and consistent in all tasks. Not only will this trait help you in gaining influence of those older than you, but it will also help you when leading others.
3. Trust
To put it plainly, people are not positively influenced by people they can’t trust. Even more importantly, when you lose someone’s trust, it is extremely difficult to gain that trust back. So it is very important to be honest from the beginning. Character counts!!
4. Results
At the end of the day, we have a job to do no matter what the description may be. People like those who make things happen. Proving yourself through positive results on a consistent basis will win you the influence you desire.
These are just a few of the qualities that it takes to gain influence at a young age.
What other character traits, skills, or tips do you feel are important for influencing up?
About the Author
Dustin Bates is the Student Pastor at Cornerstone Community Church and co-creator of Millennial Leader.com. He loves to help connect people with their passion & purpose. He Lives with his wonderful wife Allison in Orangeburg, SC. Follow Dustin on Twitter @Dustin_Bates or on his blog at Dustinbates.org.
This is really great advice Dustin. Thanks for the reminder to stay humble, do my job consistently w/ great results, and be patient as others slowly learn I’m trustworthy.
Thanks Summer! Was a real paradigm shift for me when I figured this out.
Dustin Bates recently posted..Power of Change
Been learning about this as older leaders share how I’ve impacted them (which is weird to think about because I’m looking up to them). When we simply listen and obey God, you automatically influence upward (at least in ministry) as they see God at work in and through you and those you lead.
Another way to influence up is to know what you believe and stand for and then have the courage to take a stand when needed without compromising who you are or succumbing to politics.
Absolutely! Standing for what you believe is vital for a young leader. Thanks for sharing
When I saw the tweet, I thought immediately of humility – all four are incredibly important things.
It goes in the same direction, but I’d add “listening skills” – not just listening to the Great and Wise people who lead you, but also listening to the people you lead; listening to yourself, and of course listening to God.
Only in that way will patience and perseverance have any point.
Pierre recently posted..A culture of consequences
Very true, people will only follow a leader they know cares about them.. Thanks!
One trait that Jesus portrayed was “servant-ship”… I believe it goes hand in hand with humility – but serving people will go a long way – and not only will you gain trust, etc… you’ll learn more and be more like Jesus.
Jason recently posted..big steps, tight grip