Tuesday Tales: Influencing without Authority

Recently, a participant in one of the trainings I facilitated shared an impressive story of a young intern in a bank who was later retained and deployed to work in one of the branches of the Bank.

The story affirms the fact that power is the potential ability of one person to influence other people to bring out desired outcomes. It is not exclusive to leaders and managers. In this particular organisation, where ambition thrives amid the chaos, this young rookie emerged in a modest branch and went on to defy convention by setting a remarkable example of the transformative power that lies within each of us.

Meet Tunde, an unassuming young banker with dreams, passion and charisma. Fresh out of university, he was assigned to a small branch in a very busy Lagos Market. In the same branch, there was a seasoned Branch Manager, Mr. Adekunle, with years of experience and a reputation as a stern, no-nonsense leader.

Tunde understood that power wasn't limited to titles or positions; it was something that could be harnessed through influence and personal charisma. He knew that if he wanted to rise beyond the ordinary, he had to connect with people and create a lasting impact.

Here are the steps he took to enhance his influence and persuasion skills at the Branch:

1. Developing a Strong Work Ethic: Tunde realized that respect in the workplace was earned through dedication and hard work. He approached every task with enthusiasm and commitment, regardless of how menial it seemed.
2. Building Relationships: Tunde made an effort to connect with his colleagues on a personal level. He listened to their concerns, offered assistance when needed, and provided emotional support during challenging times. He genuinely cared about their well-being.
3. Continuous Learning: Tunde never stopped learning. He attended seminars, workshops, and online courses to expand his knowledge and skillset. His willingness to adapt and grow made him a valuable asset to the team.
4. Effective Communication: Tunde honed his communication skills. He could articulate his thoughts clearly, listen actively, and convey his ideas persuasively. This made him a go-to person for problem-solving.
5. Leading by Example: Tunde didn't just talk the talk; he walked the walk. He set an example by consistently demonstrating the values and behaviors he expected from others.

As Tunde diligently applied these principles, his influence in the branch began to grow. His colleagues admired his work ethic, his ability to connect with people and his results became undeniable.

The branch manager, Mr. Adekunle, couldn't help but notice the change in the atmosphere. Tunde was making a significant impact, and it was becoming increasingly clear that he held an untapped potential.

One day, a critical project presented itself, and the branch manager decided to take a leap of faith. He entrusted Tunde with leading the project. Tunde's leadership style, rooted in compassion and effective communication, transformed the branch's dynamics. The project was a resounding success, and the branch's performance reached new heights.

The success of the project caught the attention of the regional management, and Tunde was promoted to a more significant role within a remarkably short time frame. As he continued to rise through the ranks, Tunde remained committed to his values of hard work, relationship building, continuous learning, effective communication, and leading by example.

Tunde's story is a testament to the power of influence and personal charisma. He demonstrated that power isn't exclusive to leaders and managers but is within the reach of anyone willing to invest in themselves and their relationships. In the ever-competitive world of banking, Tunde showed that it's not just about climbing the ladder; it's about changing the game.

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