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Commentary: Influence and leadership

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Keith Green
  • 737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  What is the key to achieving team success? What separates individuals, units, groups, and teams who achieve great things from those who merely get by? What makes people want to follow a leader? Why do people reluctantly comply with one leader while passionately following another into the depths of hell?

During my career, I've had the opportunity to observe many different leadership styles and many different personalities. Some were formally appointed while others emerged to the forefront of their peer group. Some were charismatic and refined. Others were unrefined and had the social graces of "Popeye the Sailorman," unable to take more than two steps without lobbing an "F-Bomb" at the closest bystander. Consider these two very different, yet effective styles of leadership. What is the common trait that attracts followers?

The common trait I saw was their ability to influence. Rank was not paramount. Often, their positions within the unit did not matter. People tend to be drawn to those who can influence and those who are willing to stand up and make a difference.

I would argue that among the truest measures of leadership, leadership in its purest form, is one's ability to influence. True leadership cannot be awarded, appointed or assigned. It derives primarily from influence and cannot be mandated, but is earned. So why should you care; what's the point?

As our Air Force continues to posture for an uncertain future, change seems to remain the only constant. As we prepare our Airmen for the challenges ahead, we will need leadership at all levels. Informal leaders are needed just as much as formal leaders. The youngest Airman, with an understanding of how he or she influences those around them, can affect change and influence a unit's success or failure as much as the highest ranking person in that unit. If you, through your character, knowledge, ability, intuition and experience find that people are drawn to you and are influenced by you, challenge yourself to use your influence to lead and to serve our fellow Airmen! You are the hope for the future. Our nation's trust and our Air Force's future rest in your capable hands. If you can influence people (at any level), you are a leader and mentor. If you are a leader, people will follow you!