Who We Are Makes a Difference in How We Influence

Speaking of the gift of gab, and somewhat contrary to popular opinion, being a trained orator and practiced debater isn’t a key requirement to becoming an effective influencer. Research has shown, however, that certain demographics and traits do spawn better influencers.

Women have traditionally proved to be more democratic leaders, who encourage collaboration and involvement at all levels of a team. They also tend to show a more transformational style of leadership (that is, the grooming and growth of subordinates), making them more effective mentors.

On the other side of this politically sensitive coin, women are less likely to adopt aggressive styles when necessary and thus have a narrower field of options when in influencing mode. One study showed that a male presenter has a six times greater likelihood of getting buy-in than a woman presenting the same information. Although unfair, this is great information for female leaders to exploit strategically; they can put a trusted male messenger in front of a group for quicker acceptance of a message. Strategy and psychology beat ego every time when important business goals are at stake.