How to Become an Influencer

Thoughts from Influence by Philip E. Morrison and Hankuri Tawus Gaya:

Joseph was a slave. Because of his faithful service, he was put in charge of his master’s entire house and everything he owned. Then he was falsely accused and imprisoned. Instead of becoming bitter, he behaved in such a way that the warden gave him the responsibility to administrate the prison. In both situations, Joseph served with integrity and reliability. When he later interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, he influenced the nation to prepare for the coming famine. Joseph’s story teaches: to become an influencer, build a reputation for trustworthiness. Influence will come as people trust you. 

Often leaders are threatened by others who appear to have gifts and talent. Perhaps they don’t have the same education, drive, or ideas that the potential leader has. Older people sometimes don’t understand youth culture and feel threatened by it. People can also feel threatened by women or members of another tribe because they represent different groups. However, if leaders can trust you and your motives, you can start to exercise influence. 

Trust can take time to build. Some people want to take the quick and easy way to the top, but there is no shortcut. You develop trust by demonstrating dependable character in your actions over time, in different circumstances and situations. “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones” (Luke 16:10). As you build trust over time, you will begin to develop a growing influence within your sphere of life and ministry. 

The writer of Proverbs makes this point when he writes, “Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people” (Proverbs 22:29 NLT). If you want to influence positional leaders, you need to have a reputation for being trustworthy. Your reputation will open the door for you to give thoughts and ideas to the decision-makers. 

Ask a few colleagues and mentors if you have a reputation for faithfulness. Also, ask them what you could do to build a reputation that will give you the opportunity to be an influencer.