There was a surprising side-effect from learning how to coach.

One that I'm very aware to not abuse.

But does become very useful.

I became more influential.

I didn't know why at first, but then I read this.

📚 Influence Is Your Superpower by Zoe Chance.

Coaching skills give you the ability to create change, direct attention, and move hearts and minds. 

When you become someone people want to say YES! to, you are heavily rewarded. 

You become a better friend, a more trusted adviser, and a more engaged partner and parent.

With great power, comes great responsibility.

I have seen some leaders use their new coaching skills to manipulate. For example, using the power of the pause to force teams to speak. 

The key lesson for all leaders is to not learn only the coaching techniques, but also the intentionality behind them. Offering transparently this way of leading is a gift that can be refused.

👋 How do you influence?