I was listening to an HR podcast recently, and as always, there was a lot of talk about the importance of influence.
But what struck me was that “influence” was being used in a general sense – as something you have.
As in: “She’s really influential,” or “HR practitioners need to have influence.”
To me, that’s capital “I” Influence – being respected, trusted, known for your expertise.
You’re the kind of person people want in the room because your opinion carries weight.
That’s important, but it’s not the whole story.
Because having influence isn’t the same as using it.
Little “i” influence is active.
It’s about shifting perspectives, moving decisions and changing behaviour.
It’s about influencing outcomes, whether or not you’re invited into the room.
And the great news is, whether or not you have Influence, you can influence.
That’s what behavioural science is for.
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