Episode 10 - Leadership Influence
Download MP3In this episode of A Student of Leadership, Rob Adams discusses the critical leadership capability of influence. He emphasizes that influence is about inspiring action and guiding outcomes through trust and relationships rather than authority. Using the example of Malala Yousafzai, he illustrates how authentic leadership and unwavering conviction can create a global movement for change. The episode provides actionable steps for leaders to enhance their influence, including building genuine relationships, modeling desired behaviors, and communicating a compelling vision. Adams concludes that it is challenging for listeners to apply these principles in their leadership journey.
Takeaways
- Influence is the ability to inspire action and guide outcomes.
- True influence is rooted in behaviors, not titles.
- Malala Yousafzai exemplifies the power of unwavering conviction.
- Influence is about leading with conviction and authenticity.
- 85% of financial success is due to interpersonal skills.
- Building genuine relationships fosters trust.
- Modeling desired behavior influences team actions.
- Communicating a clear vision resonates with teams.
- Influence is a skill that can be developed over time.
- Great leaders empower their teams to achieve extraordinary results.
Titles
- The Essence of Leadership Influence
- Inspiring Action Through Trust
Sound Bites
- "Influence is the ability to inspire action."
- "Model the behavior you want to see."
- "Communicate a clear and compelling vision."
Chapters
00:00
The Power of Influence in Leadership
The Power of Influence in Leadership
03:44
Building Trust and Relationships
Building Trust and Relationships
06:45
Actionable Steps to Enhance Influence
Actionable Steps to Enhance Influence
Creators and Guests
Host
Rob Adams
In today's dynamic foodservice industry, I help leaders across the entire supply chain drive exceptional results. As Executive Vice President of Member Development & Training at UniPro Foodservice - North America's largest food distribution cooperative - I've learned that sustainable success in our industry requires more than just great programs and competitive pricing. It demands exceptional leadership at every level. For over 25 years, I've worked alongside independent distributors as they successfully compete against publicly-held national players, innovative manufacturers who create market-leading products, and foodservice operators who deliver memorable dining experiences. This unique vantage point has taught me something profound: while markets evolve and business models shift, the behaviors that define great leadership remain constant. The most successful leaders in our industry - whether they're running distribution operations, leading manufacturing teams, managing restaurant groups, or serving institutional foodservice - all share specific, learnable routines that consistently drive both remarkable business results and unwavering team loyalty. My passion lies in helping foodservice leaders master these proven leadership behaviors. Because in our industry, the difference between good and great often comes down to one thing: leaders who know how to make both their people and their operations better every single day. From the manufacturing floor to the distribution center to the dining room, great leadership is what transforms good organizations into market leaders.
