ways to improve leadership influence

Introduction

Leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about inspiring others to follow your vision. In 2025, as workplaces evolve with hybrid teams, AI tools, and shifting priorities, finding ways to improve leadership influence has become more critical than ever. Whether you’re guiding a small startup crew or steering a global team, your ability to connect, motivate, and lead with impact defines your success. The good news? Influence isn’t a fixed trait—it’s a skill you can build with the right approach.

This article dives into actionable strategies to boost your leadership influence in today’s fast-paced world. From mastering communication to embracing modern trends, these tips are designed for leaders at any level who want to make a lasting impression. Let’s explore how you can elevate your presence and inspire those around you.

1. Master the Art of Authentic Communication

Communication is the backbone of influence. In 2025, where digital interactions dominate, being clear and genuine sets you apart. People follow leaders they trust, and trust starts with how you speak and listen.

• Be Transparent: Share your goals and challenges openly. For example, if a project hits a snag, explain the situation and your plan to fix it. This builds credibility.
• Listen Actively: Don’t just hear—show you value input. Ask questions like, “What do you think we could do differently?” and act on feedback when it makes sense.
• Adapt Your Style: Some team members prefer quick Slack updates, while others thrive in face-to-face chats. Tailor your approach to fit their needs.

When you communicate with authenticity, your team feels seen and heard, amplifying your ability to guide them effectively.

2. Lead by Example Every Day

Actions speak louder than words, especially in leadership. If you want your team to embrace a value—like accountability or innovation—you need to model it first.

• Show Up Consistently: If you preach punctuality, be the first one in the meeting. Small habits like this ripple outward.
• Own Your Mistakes: In 2025, perfection is out—resilience is in. Admit when you’re wrong and show how you’ll improve. It humanizes you and encourages others to take risks.
• Celebrate Wins: Recognize effort, not just results. A simple “Great job on that presentation!” can inspire continued excellence.

Leading by example doesn’t mean being flawless—it means showing your team what commitment looks like in action.

3. Embrace Technology to Connect and Inspire

In 2025, technology isn’t optional—it’s a leadership superpower. From AI-driven analytics to virtual collaboration tools, leveraging tech can expand your reach and deepen your impact.

• Use Data Wisely: Tools like performance dashboards can highlight team strengths. Share these insights to motivate, saying, “Look how far we’ve come this quarter!”
• Host Virtual Check-Ins: With remote work still thriving, regular video calls keep everyone aligned. Keep them short, focused, and engaging.
• Learn New Platforms: Experiment with emerging tools—think AI chatbots for team updates or VR for immersive brainstorming. Staying ahead shows adaptability.

Tech-savvy leaders don’t just keep up—they use innovation to strengthen relationships and drive progress.

4. Build Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Influence isn’t about barking orders—it’s about understanding people. Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is your secret weapon for connecting on a deeper level.

• Read the Room: Notice when someone’s quiet or stressed. A quick, “Hey, how are you holding up?” can open doors to trust.
• Manage Your Emotions: Stay calm under pressure. If a deadline’s tight, project confidence instead of panic—it steadies the team.
• Empathize: Put yourself in their shoes. If a team member’s juggling childcare, offer flexibility. Small gestures build loyalty.

High EQ turns you into a leader people want to follow, not just one they have to.

5. Empower Others to Shine

Great leaders don’t hoard power—they share it. Empowering your team boosts their confidence and, in turn, your influence.

• Delegate Smartly: Hand off tasks that stretch their skills. Say, “I trust you to lead this pitch—let me know how I can support you.”
• Provide Resources: Offer training, tools, or mentorship. In 2025, online courses or AI coaching platforms are goldmines for growth.
• Step Back: Resist micromanaging. Let them solve problems their way, and they’ll see you as a guide, not a gatekeeper.

When you lift others up, they’ll amplify your vision willingly.

6. Stay Ahead of 2025 Trends

Influence grows when you’re relevant. This year, shifts like sustainability, inclusivity, and mental health awareness are shaping leadership. Staying informed keeps you credible.

• Prioritize Well-Being: Offer mental health days or stress-management workshops. It shows you care beyond the bottom line.
• Champion Diversity: Actively seek varied perspectives. A team that feels included is more engaged and innovative.
• Go Green: Lead eco-friendly initiatives, like reducing office waste. It aligns with 2025’s push for purpose-driven leadership.

Trend-aware leaders don’t just react—they set the pace, earning respect and followers.

7. Develop a Personal Leadership Brand

Your reputation is your influence currency. In 2025, a strong personal brand—online and offline—makes you memorable.

• Share Your Story: Post on LinkedIn about your leadership journey. A post like “How I learned to lead through failure” resonates.
• Be Consistent: Align your words, actions, and values. If you value creativity, showcase it in meetings and projects.
• Network Intentionally: Attend virtual summits or local meetups. Relationships amplify your voice.

A clear brand turns you into a go-to leader people trust and seek out.

8. Seek Feedback and Act on It

No one’s perfect, and that’s okay. Asking for feedback shows humility and a desire to grow—qualities that draw people in.

• Ask Specific Questions: Try, “What’s one thing I could do better in our next meeting?” It’s less vague than “How am I doing?”
• Act Fast: If your team says you talk too much in discussions, practice pausing next time. Visible change builds trust.
• Thank Them: A simple “I appreciate your honesty” encourages more input later.

Feedback isn’t criticism—it’s a roadmap to stronger influence.

FAQs about ways to improve leadership influence

1. What’s the fastest way to improve leadership influence?
Start with authentic communication—be clear, honest, and approachable. People connect with leaders they trust.

2. How can I influence a team that’s resistant to change?
Listen to their concerns, involve them in decisions, and show small wins to build momentum.

3. Does technology really matter for leadership influence?
Yes! In 2025, tools like AI and virtual platforms help you connect and lead more effectively.

4. How do I know if my influence is growing?
Look for signs like increased team engagement, unsolicited feedback, or people seeking your advice.

5. Can introverts improve their leadership influence?
Absolutely. Focus on one-on-one connections and lead through actions, not just words.

Conclusion

Leadership influence isn’t a gift you’re born with—it’s a muscle you strengthen over time. By communicating authentically, leading by example, embracing tech, and empowering others, you can inspire your team like never before. The ways to improve leadership influence outlined here are practical steps you can take in 2025 to stand out as a leader who matters. Whether you’re navigating remote work challenges or rallying a team around a bold vision, these strategies will help you leave a lasting mark.

Ready to level up? Pick one tip from this list and try it this week. Watch how small changes spark big results—and keep refining your approach as you go.