#5 of 13 Characterstics of Influence -Socially Intelligent

If you have topic ideas for our podcast or want to reach Michelle, send us a text! We'd love to hear from you!

#5 - SOCIALLY INTELLIGENT

It goes without saying that we must be socially intelligent to be influential. Obviously, we cannot expect to influence others if we struggle at getting along with them. 

Socially intelligent people are those who show a genuine interest in others. They seem to have the ability to come across as sincere and thoughtful. The conversations of socially intelligent people always leave others feeling positive about themselves, about others and about the world in general. 

A common characteristic of one who is socially intelligent is that they tend to be genuinely concerned about the affairs, thoughts, feelings and challenges others have. They are not interested from a standpoint of intrusion, judgement or pity but from the perspective of helping them to “rethink” their own perceptions. This is done through encouragement, kind words, listening, believing in them and never forcing their own ideals.

For example, a leader who is socially intelligent will not simply give out answers when things go wrong. They will approach each challenge with a resolve to raise the potential of his/her team by drawing out from them creative solutions and empowering them to overcome every adversity knowing that their leader believes in them.

“Leadership is not about titles, positions or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.”
 ― John C. Maxwell

Another example is a socially intelligent business transaction. When working with a potential client, it involves listening to understand and staying open to new ways of strategizing. They will be able to reflect back client concerns clearly and effectively, assuring them they can see the issues from the same perception. Then, the suggested solutions offered will align with the client’s needs because they have taken the time to listen, learn and adapt to the real issues of the client or organization.

In summary, Social Intelligence is approaching all conversations and challenges with the intent to leave people better off than how you found them.

“Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.”
 ― Stephen R. Covey

Excerpts and insights* from Chapter 10 of "Your Journey to Greatness Through Routine: A Guide to Creating a Success Routine"
Book Contains:

• 7 Actual Case Studies
• 8 Downloadable Tools
• Assessment Questions at the End of Each Chapter
• The Brain Science Behind Habits
• Retraining Your Brain Through Cognitive Restructuring
• Heart Science, Energy and the Law of Attraction
• Powerful Principles of Influence and Greatness
• Tips and Tools to Build Your Success Routine

*Certain portions have been added to actual book excerpts by the author.
  LEARN MORE AND PURCHASE THE BOOK at http://michellesteffes.com/book

Support the show

Michelle L Steffes is a Certified Speaker, Corporate Trainer, Executive Coach and Author of two books: "Reframe & Rewire" (also available on Audible) and "The Machine Inside Me." Discover more and contact her through her website, IPV Consulting.