Implementing Influence
Be a Model
BE A MODEL FOR OTHERS
The point of gaining influence is to impact change for good. One way to do that is by helping others find their power, authority and influence through support.
This is a no brainer for admins as we do this already as a profession but remember to extend it to new and junior employees. Take time to get to know them and show them the around.
We are all very busy, it seems to be an epidemic these days…constant busyness. You don’t need to put them on a full mentorship program, but taking them for coffee or spending 30 minutes showing them around the office can go a long way.
Then continue to check in on them every now and then. You never know, your connection could lead to exciting possibilities in the future so try to make a good and impacting impression.
Not to mention, that sometimes helping others gives us strength.
Making Decisions
SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO ACT
One of the biggest indicators of a leader is to make the big decisions. Successful leaders use their experience and trust in the opinions and advice of their staff to help them make an informed decision. They hired them for a reason, right?
Leaders sift through information to make the best decision based on the information they have and the goals of the company.
As admins we are privy to a lot of information and we can use that to become more autonomous and make more decisions. If you aren’t used to making decisions, dip your toe in and start small. The more positive the reaction the more comfortable you’ll become in your abilities.
ASK FOR FORGIVENESS…
Instead of permission. Leaders recognize those who take initiative. If you aren’t used to this then start small and make decisions that you would normally go to a manager to decide. If you feel conviction in your decision and it isn’t breaking a stringent rule in your company then maybe bend the rules a bit.
Of course I don’t mean in anyway that goes against the values of the company, but if the meeting room your boss expressly said he wanted for the board meeting in 10 minutes is experiencing electrical problems and you know a similar room is available, don’t wait for permission to act. Make a decision to get the other room set up and the guest notified of the new location. It’s worth the risk.
Culture Creation
Your position and influence could give you the ability to be a culture keeper or culture creator for your company.
CULTURE IS…
The personality of the company including its values, workplace environment, attitudes and standards.
To improve retention companies are working hard to keep employees happy. Some think culture these days equates to a ping pong table, a beer fridge and Summer Fridays. Sadly, it’s not that easy.
Some ways you can influence culture:
- Demonstrative the values of the company often
- Culture is best implemented from the top down. saving Senior leadership that buy-in quickly is the best way to implement real change in culture.
- Capitalize on your relationship with leadership to present projects and ideas that will improve culture and make employees happy
- Implement new (and most importantly common sense) policies and procedures to help make the life of staff easier
See the Culture Course for more on this.