How do you know if you actually have influence—or if people are just following orders? Influence isn’t just about authority or making decisions; it’s about trust, relationships, and how others engage with you. But too often, leaders assume they have influence without looking for real evidence.

In this episode, we explore what true influence looks like and how to measure it. Susie shares a personal story of winning over a skeptical audience, while James reflects on how leaders can build credibility beyond their titles. We also discuss the importance of listening, vulnerability, and creating an environment where people want to engage—not just comply. 

If you’re a leader wondering whether your influence is real, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how you show up.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• Why authority isn’t the same as influence—and how to tell the difference.
• The role of vulnerability in building authentic connections.
• How to assess whether people respect you or just follow orders.

CONNECT WITH SUSIE:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susietomenchok/

CONNECT WITH JAMES:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/capps/