All managers and leaders need to gain the power to influence people and then exercise and expand their influence over time in their own circles and societies to gain and sustain desired results. 

Here are my Top 15 Sources of Influence Power. Consider your strengths: 

1. Appearance: weight, height, looks, appeal, attractiveness, image 
2. Energy: strength, charisma, confidence, personality, fitness, body language 
3. Voice: speaking, presentation, negotiation, conversation, expressiveness/language 
4. Character: example, integrity, ethics, trust, honesty, respect (walk the talk) 
5. Reputation: Social/professional status, public relations, networking, relationships 
6. Works: achievements, accomplishments, contributions, service 
7. Knowledge: ideas, writing, innovations, inventions, wisdom, expertise, judgment 
8. Skills: experience, abilities/capabilities, information, facts, data, resources, access 
9. Position: title, role, rank, formal authority recommendation, referral 
10. Coercion: ability to do damage, use of fear, bribes, threats, warnings, punishments, humiliation, demotion, firing, censure, harm, loss, leverage, bad reviews. 
11. Celebrity status: name/face recognition, fame, endorsement, media exposure, brand 
12. Willpower: freedom to choose, proactive response, creativity, courage 
13. Listening: empathy, understanding, consideration, emotional intelligence, openness, vulnerability, humility 
14. Incentives: rewards, recognition, money, promotion, promises, reciprocity 
15. Inspiration: spirit, zen, vision, motivation, meditation, passion, higher power 

What sources of Influence Power do you have as an individual--and as a team? List and rank your top three sources and consider how you might leverage them to generate more influence power with the people who matter most to you. 

Leadership is all about discovering your influence power and then exerting your influence strategically to optimize your performance and results. I hope you do and have a clear view of what you can become when you exercise your influence power with discipline daily. You will then be motivated to tap into your sources of power in order to benefit and bless more people. 

《Leadership Excellence》 2012.11