In the absence of the ability to influence others, the ability to envision a reality remains elusive. Kent Scarborough helps the business owners to develop the essential skills of leadership.

All the organizations have two sides. One is the formal structure on the organization chart and informal structure that represents how things really get done. More networking should be done to build social capital. Always think before responding and consider the context and goals before taking a decision as when and how to express.  Pay close attention to even nonverbal cues, practice active listening and consider as what others feel to make better ways to achievement of a common goal. Leader must leave a good impression without trying too hard.

Self-promotion often considered as selfishness acts. The successful entrepreneurs promote themselves in an authentic way for the right reason. Never consider self-promotion as a tool to advance in your career goals. Although, it offers visibility and opportunities to generate team and create organizational pride but be true to make ideas and opportunities visible across the whole organization and this enhances collaboration.

Business owners must take advantage of self-promotion to gather audience. Make more people as part of the team and inculcate them into problem solving process.

In every business, trust plays a major role. Being successful business owners, always make efforts to build and maintain trust. Without trust, you might be able to force people to comply but can never tap them into full commitment. People look for business owners who are good leaders and can appreciate their vulnerability and inspire and support them always even in looming chaos. Such instances require demonstrating range of behaviors and all must be used in appropriate and timely manner to create environment that foster trust.

Trust involves balance between pushing people into areas even when they are not comfortable to listen to the feed backs. Trustworthy entrepreneurs weigh toughness and empathy as individuals struggle with transition.

Finally, business owners who are skilled at influencing others are able to can cultivate the power of network. These days, organizations are becoming dynamic. Influential leaders recognize that the personal network must also remain dynamic to grow and strengthen the network.

Kent Paul Scarborough Former CEO & Entrepreneur. Loves to create, start and build businesses so he shows the strategic path on how to choose and tap to leverage networks.