Leader’s Perspective

Leadership is the art of influencing others in order to accomplish the mission. The ability to influence is one of the essential skills of a leader. It’s more art than science. Hence, it doesn’t follow any rules or theories. Though it’s tough to perform, the bottom line is influence matters.

According to Discovery Learning Inc., there were five styles of influencing the asserting, convincing, negotiating, bridging and inspiring. Each of these styles is effective depending upon the people involved and the situation. In order to increase influence, he must identify first his influencing style for. Does he assert, convince, negotiate, bridge or inspire? Understanding your own inclination is a good way to start. Then, practice. Begin with small steps, and then improve those approaches.

In our class, NOCC CL-25, we were convened having different personalities from different walks of life. Each day we are given the opportunity to lead the class being the marcher of the day. Later, we realize that everyday we unknowingly leading each other. Giving caution is an instrument to influence others. Influencing through giving caution will depend on how it was given. Credibility is a must. Smart leaders know what they know and more essentially they know what they do not know. Pretending you know something you know nothing at all weakens credibility. It must also be sustained through action to prove your knowledge. Even you know something but you do not perform it, implies that you know nothing. For example, OC “A” cautioned OC “B” to avoid slouching because it isn’t nice to see. OC “B” didn’t react instead he reasoned that even OC “A” is slouching.  This happens because OC “A” drops credibility. To avoid this to occur, a leader must set the example. He shall at always shows what is the standard before relaying it to others. This is a simple way on how to influence others. There are lots of scenarios that challenge the leadership style of a leader. The best thing to do is to enhance credibility.

Indeed, leading men is not an easy task. Sometimes, a leader needs to cut through arguments while finding solutions on such problems encountered. He may have good intentions, but still it is not enough to please everyone. And even how democratic he is, he will not be able to convince everyone. In fact, there will be those who will surely oppose. Yet, a leader is obliged to give his final decision. As quoted by Gen. Douglas MacArthur, “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others.” Well, that’s the challenge of being a leader. He shall do what is right even if he’ll be criticized by others.