Competence: The Cornerstone of Influential Leadership

Pause for a while and think about the leaders you admire.  Do you know that there is a big chance that they have one thing in common?  They know their stuff.  Competence isn’t just a nice ‘add-on’ for a leader – it’s a necessity.  Without it, influence turns to dust even before it even has a chance to shine.

Thus, mastering ones craft is the jumpstart of being able to demonstrate competence.  A person’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality work be it technical know-how, strategic thinking or effective communication sets the tone that is music to people’s ears.  People will more likely trust and respect a leader who leads by example.

However, competence is more than just about personal performance.  As a leader of influence, it is also about paving the way to success for your team.  Be comfortable to share what you know, mentor whenever opportunities arise, and make sure everyone is equipped with the necessary tools to not just to thrive but to excel.  When you show qualities of being both capable and someone who empowers, your influence becomes undeniable.

Next, stay relevant.  The entire world of work is evolving, and so must you.  Leaders who continuously learn and adapt communicate to people that they are confident and ready for future challenges.  This is a sure-fire credibility boost and will inspire others to level up alongside you.

This week, identify one area in your work where you can deepen your expertise.  Commit to improving – whether through various training media or by seeking mentorship.  Look for ways to share whatever it is that you learned with your team.  And while you’re at it, don’t forget to prioritize your inner peace.  A leader who is confident in their competence and grounded in peace becomes a force of steady influence.