Introduction
Great leadership isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about inspiring others, driving change, and creating meaningful results. In today’s dynamic work environments, the most effective leaders blend emotional intelligence, clear vision, and authentic influence to build high-performing teams and lasting impact.
At ThinkHero.com.au, we believe that anyone can become a stronger leader—whether you’re managing a team, leading a project, or shaping culture within your organisation. In this article, we’ll share top tips for success in leadership and influence, giving you practical strategies to lead with confidence and create positive momentum in your personal and professional life.
1. Lead With Self-Awareness First
Strong leadership starts with knowing yourself—your values, your strengths, your blind spots.
How to build self-awareness:
- Seek regular feedback from peers, mentors, or direct reports
- Reflect on your decision-making patterns and emotional responses
- Take leadership assessments (e.g., DISC, MBTI, CliftonStrengths)
- Practice mindfulness to improve self-regulation
Why it matters: Self-aware leaders build trust and lead with authenticity—not ego.
2. Communicate With Clarity and Purpose
Influential leaders are excellent communicators. They speak with intention and listen with curiosity.
Communication tips:
- Use simple, direct language—especially when explaining vision or strategy
- Tailor your message to your audience (team, execs, stakeholders)
- Practice active listening—paraphrase, ask questions, acknowledge input
- Align verbal communication with non-verbal cues (tone, posture, eye contact)
Tip: Clarity creates alignment. Say less, but mean more.
3. Cultivate Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
EQ is the ability to understand and manage your emotions—and those of others. It’s one of the strongest predictors of leadership success.
Key components:
- Self-awareness: Know your emotions
- Self-regulation: Manage reactions under pressure
- Empathy: Understand others’ perspectives
- Social skills: Navigate conflict, influence, and collaboration
Pro insight: High-EQ leaders are better at retaining talent and navigating change.
4. Lead by Example—Not Just Expectation
Leadership is about modelling the behaviours you want to see in others.
Examples:
- If you expect accountability, own your mistakes publicly
- If you value continuous learning, share your own growth journey
- If you promote collaboration, seek feedback before making key decisions
Remember: Your actions speak louder than any leadership workshop ever could.
5. Build Influence Through Trust
Influence isn’t about persuasion—it’s about earning trust through consistency, competence, and care.
How to build trust:
- Keep your promises—big or small
- Admit when you’re wrong or don’t know something
- Give credit freely and take responsibility when things go wrong
- Make decisions in alignment with shared values
Outcome: Influence follows trust—and trust is built one moment at a time.
6. Develop Future Leaders Around You
A true measure of leadership is not what you achieve, but what you help others become.
Ways to grow others:
- Provide stretch opportunities and mentoring
- Encourage decision-making ownership
- Offer regular, constructive feedback
- Celebrate progress, not just outcomes
Tip: Leaders who grow leaders leave a lasting legacy—not just results.
7. Adapt Your Style to Different Situations
There’s no one-size-fits-all leadership style. The best leaders know when to coach, direct, support, or delegate.
Situational leadership in action:
- In crisis? Be clear, fast, and decisive
- With new team members? Provide structure and guidance
- With high-performers? Empower and get out of the way
- In conflict? Be calm, fair, and solution-focused
Flexibility is one of the most underrated leadership superpowers.
8. Make Decisions with Integrity and Courage
Leadership often means making tough calls. What defines you is how you make them—and why.
Decision-making guidelines:
- Gather input, but avoid analysis paralysis
- Use data and intuition
- Prioritise ethical, long-term outcomes over short-term gains
- Communicate the “why” behind your decisions clearly
Quote to remember: “In the absence of integrity, influence becomes manipulation.”
9. Create Psychological Safety
Teams perform best when they feel safe to speak up, fail, and innovate.
How to foster safety:
- Acknowledge your own mistakes publicly
- Encourage diverse viewpoints in meetings
- Respond constructively to failure—ask “what did we learn?”
- Ensure credit is shared and blame isn’t weaponised
Result: Higher engagement, better problem-solving, and greater innovation.
10. Never Stop Learning
Great leaders are lifelong learners. Stay curious, open, and growth-oriented.
Ways to grow:
- Read leadership books and industry insights
- Join leadership forums or peer groups
- Hire a coach or mentor
- Reflect after key milestones: “What went well? What could be better?”
Mindset: Leadership isn’t a title you earn—it’s a craft you practice.
Real-World Example: Leadership That Inspired Growth
Leader: Mia, a tech team lead in Melbourne
Challenge: Her team was disengaged and underperforming during a company restructure
Actions taken:
- Held weekly 1:1s focused on career goals, not just tasks
- Openly shared her own concerns and strategies for managing change
- Advocated for flexible work arrangements based on team feedback
- Empowered team members to lead sprints and make more decisions
Results:
- Team engagement increased 40% in 6 months
- Delivery timelines improved
- Two team members were promoted into leadership roles
Conclusion
Leadership and influence are not about command—they’re about connection, courage, and consistency. By leading with emotional intelligence, setting a strong example, and building trust over time, you create more than just results—you build teams and cultures that thrive.
At ThinkHero.com.au, we’re committed to helping leaders grow into their full potential. Whether you’re just stepping into a leadership role or looking to deepen your impact, the principles above will serve as a foundation for lasting success.