Influencing without authority is a powerful concept that transcends traditional notions of leadership, said Melina Taprantzi, a social entrepreneur who in 2020 was one of the seven women globally that received the prestigious “SDGs and Her” award from the United Nations and theWorld Bank, for her work in the implementation of the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development.
Influencing without power establishes the ability to lead through inspiration, trust, and collaboration rather than relying solely on formal titles or power.
This approach encourages individuals, regardless of their position within an organization, to understand what motivates their peers, align with shared values, and find common ground to drive meaningful change.
In the context of sustainability, Taprantzi explains, a person may not hold direct decision-making power but can still inspire action through effective relationship-building and a compelling vision for the future.
Authority in the workplace can stem not just from formal leadership roles but also from earned credibility, knowledge, and trust, allowing every employee the potential to influence workplace culture through their actions and expertise.
In this discussion, we will explore strategies to enhance influence in the workplace, the responsibilities of leaders in empowering their teams, and the crucial interplay between leadership and employee initiative.
What does influencing without authority mean?
Influencing without authority is about leading through inspiration, trust, and collaboration rather than relying on formal titles or power. It means understanding what motivates others, aligning with their values, and finding common ground to drive positive change. Whether you’re a peer or in a junior role, your ideas and your passion can spark innovation.
In sustainability, for instance, you might not have direct control over decisions, but through building relationships and communicating the greater purpose, you can inspire action toward a more sustainable future.”
Who is the source of authority within a workplace?
Authority in the workplace comes from many sources. Yes, it can come from formal leadership, like managers or executives, but there’s another kind of authority—one that is earned through credibility, knowledge, and trust. In fact, each employee has the potential to be a source of influence, shaping the workplace culture through their actions, values, and expertise. How? By taking the lead, by being present and by “taking a sit at the table”.
Can you give us three pointers on how to increase influence authority in the workplace?
Build Trust and Relationships: Influence grows when people trust you. Invest time, listen actively, be involved.
Be a Problem Solver: Offer solutions rather than just pointing out issues.
Communicate with Purpose: Influence isn’t just about what you say, but how and why you say it.
What do leaders do when nothing works in empowering employees?
When nothing seems to work, great leaders look inward first. They ask, ‘Am I truly understanding the needs and barriers my team is facing?’ They practice active listening and become adaptable.
Is it the leader’s responsibility to ensure that their employees are empowered?
I believe it takes two to tango! Yes, it is a leader’s role to create an environment where employees feel empowered to contribute their best selves. But you also need people in your team who are self-motivated—those who find purpose and value in what they do and aren’t just working for a paycheck.