Authority versus influence: Which one are you leading with?

Madeline Curtis
Jun 2
6 min read

Updated: Jun 2

Whether you’re leading a team, raising children, or managing an office, every leadership role is shaped, at least in part, by two powerful forces: authority and influence. These two forces shape how others listen and respond to you. One of these forces typically accompanies a job title. The other, however, must be earned.

A leader, however, is more than a mere voice employees are obliged to listen to. The best leaders are those who lead with influence, rather than just authority. They inspire those around them to tap into their fullest potential, take advantage of opportunities for growth, and become the best version of themselves. Those who relied solely on their authoritative powers to meet that end are in for a rude awakening. Understanding the difference between authority and influence. Learning how to strike a balance between the two can help you become a more impactful and authentic leader. With that in mind, let’s take a deep dive into what authority is and what it means to lead with influence.

What is authority?

Authority is usually inherited with a given title, role, or office. Whether you’re a manager, supervisor, teacher, team leader, or executive officer, authority grants you the right to make decisions to achieve results. Authority often comes with the expectation of compliance–those being led are typically expected to follow out of respect for the given position. Authority can also provide structure, boundaries, and clarity. However, it is limited.

People may follow your directions simply because of the authority you possess. If their hearts aren’t in it (because you’re not leading with influence), the performance or outcome will suffer. Those you preside over may meet deadlines, sure. But, they may not go the extra mile to drive success. Nor will they be motivated as individuals to tap into their fullest potential. They comply, but they aren’t inspired. Simply put; authority may get you obedience, but not always commitment.

It’s important to note, too, that authority should be exercised responsibly. The abuse, misuse, or overuse of authority can cause significant damage to the delicate ecosystems of workplaces, communities, and families.

What is leading with influence?

Unlike authority, influence is quieter but stronger. It offers insight, inspires trust, and is built over time through consistency, empathy, and knowledge. Influential leaders don’t often need to pull rank—they lead by example. People choose to follow them because they trust them.

Influence is earned. Unlike authority, influence doesn’t come from a title or position. Rather, it comes from a foundation of trust and authenticity. Because influence comes from qualities rather than a title, it can be present without authority. Simply put, anyone can lead with influence–even those who aren’t in a traditional leadership role. Influence can be found in the coworker whose opinion others seek, parents whose children feel safe confiding in them, and the friend who speaks hard truths gently.

The key, then, to stronger and more authentic leadership is to lead with influence. If your ability to lead with influence feels a bit underdeveloped, don’t fret. We’ve compiled 5 tips aimed at helping you increase your influence with those around you.

5 tips for leading with influence

1. Listen more than you speak

Did you know, studies show 90% of employees are more likely to stay with a company that prioritizes the employee’s voice and feedback? Feeling heard is a deep need for us humans. It’s also a critical component for employee retention and satisfaction. Influential leaders practice active listening with those they lead, inviting feedback and encouraging dialogue aimed at creating a better workplace. Listen to those around you. Identify the needs lying behind the spoken word, and take action to make meaningful changes when possible. The most powerful way to influence others is by actively listening to their needs and taking action to ensure those needs are met.

2. Develop and show empathy

The World Happiness Foundation’s third annual report concluded that employees with empathetic managers reported significantly higher levels of satisfaction and motivation than those with less effective managers. Empathy is increasingly becoming the hallmark of a good, influential leader. The ability to empathize can be incredibly rewarding for both you and those you lead. Influence isn’t simply about getting what you want out of a person, but about helping that person grow into the best version of themselves. Empathy allows you to walk in another’s shoes and explore the drive behind their actions. Rather than seeing poor performance, laziness, or bad time management, empathetic leaders dive below the surface to explore what’s really going on with their team and how they may be contributing—be it unclear expectations, impossible deadlines, or simply ill-fitting roles.

READ: From employee to leader: 7 essential elements for leaders in the making

3. Share your ‘why’

How many times have you heard parents utter the dreaded phrase, “Because I said so!” Often, those in positions of authority give directions without any clear motivation or reasoning for doing so. Those who lead with influence, however, know to share the ‘why’--the reasoning behind the instruction. Clarity empowers people. When others understand the reason behind your decisions and requests, they’re more likely to be motivated by the mission. Instead of simply saying we need to make this deadline, try stating your why. For instance, “Making this deadline will put us in a better position with this client and could secure us more opportunities.” The why, or reasoning behind decisions and directions, can be a powerful motivator—and can deepen authenticity, trust, and influence.

4. Invest in relationships

Although it’s easy for leaders to get hung up in the ‘tangible’ or ‘quantifiable’, an influential leader looks beyond results and into the heart of what matters–people. If you want to be a more influential leader, get to know those you’re leading on a personal level. Look beyond the role they play and see the person and potential within. Take time to explore the humans that compose your team. Get to know their interests, talents, and strengths. Building relationships with those you lead can inspire the mutual trust and understanding crucial to your ability to lead with influence—and can prove equally beneficial to your team. In fact, this American Psychology Association survey showed 95% of respondents believe it’s important to be seen and respected at work.

READ: Task-oriented vs. people-oriented leadership

5. Be consistent

Integrity and trust are the foundations of influence. You build trust when you demonstrate that others can rely on you and your word. So, do what you say you’ll do. Be available when you say you’ll be available. Exemplify the behaviors and attitudes you expect to see in those you lead. Even small inconsistencies can chip away at your credibility. Conversely, when people know you and know what they can expect from you, they are more likely to put forth their best effort for you. Consistency is key. Want to lead with influence? Be consistent in your actions and expectations.

Pause and reflect

It’s important as a leader to evaluate your leadership style and reflect on what’s working and what may need a renovation. Take a moment to reflect on the type of leadership you often display. Are you leading primarily through authority or influence? Ask yourself the following questions to decide:

Do people follow me because they have to or because they want to?
How do I respond to feedback about my leadership?
When I offer feedback to others, is it met with resistance or reflection?
Reflecting on the tips above, how can I start shifting to a more influence-based leadership?
Do I model the behavior I expect to see in others?
Do I model the behavior I expect to see in other leaders?
Even if I don’t have the title of a leader, how can I lead others by influence?

Anyone can hold a title, but a true leader inspires action, uplifts others, and is a catalyst for growth. A true leader leads with influence regardless of their title or position. Practicing the 5 tips we’ve shared to shift your leadership from one rooted only in authority to one empowered by influence and integrity.

If you're ready to take your leadership development even further, our leadership coaching is tailored to your unique goals and aims to propel you along the path to a more effective and influential leader. We’ll help you visualize how you’ll feel and behave at your next level of success while actively working to eliminate obstacles and re-frame your thinking. Learn more.