The Influence Index
Related Resource
Growing the Distance
Growing the DistanceIn leadership development workshops, The CLEMMER Group often conducts a “degrees of control” exercise. We ask participants to come up with examples in the following areas: (1) Direct Control; (2) Influence; (3) No Control

We developed the Influence Index to help participants gauge their position with a person or group in a particular situation. In each case, when participants try to influence (or lead) another person or group towards their point of view or course of action, they need to assess their position of influence. An objective and honest assessment of that position will tell them if the time is right and they have enough strength to proceed.

Think of a situation and person in your team or organization you'd like to influence. Take this quiz and find out if you are in a strong position or not.
 
Particular situation I want to influence:



1-Extremely Weak   5-Extremely Strong

  1. My clarity around what a successful outcome would look like.
  2. My understanding of their position and win (how they’ll benefit)
  3. My persuasion and communication skills
  4. My timing and the fit of my proposed action with the situation.
  5. My tone and approach (will I increase or decrease defensiveness and conflict?)
  6. My genuine desire for a win/win outcome.
  7. My credibility with this person or group.
  8. My passion and commitment (including persistence)
  9. Our levels of mutual trust.
  10. The strength of our relationship.
  11. How well I’ve covered the bases with other key influencers and built their support.
  12. My appointed role, position, and authority.
Score
Less than 25 - Your ability to influence is very low.  You clearly have a lot of work to do if you want to increase your leadership on that issue or in that situation.'

26 - 45 - Not very strong.  You might want to wait for a better time or strengthen a few of your lowest areas.

46 or higher -  You are in a strong position to influence that person or group in that situation.
 
Testimonials
“Great insights into leadership skills!” —Peter Thorn, Vice President, Claims, HB Group Insurance
“Motivating, thought provoking, inspiring, informative, practical.” —Shaunna Rainey, Manager, Employee Development, Air Canada
“We were very impressed with what you knew about leadership and your experience in using that leadership to help organizations improve.” —Larry Beckon, Michigan Department of Transportation