The master influencer is someone who can rally the troops, when they’re needed. They have the ability to inspire others to want to get on board with the latest plan, regardless of whether it’s an easy or difficult one. And they’re able to do so, without resorting to bullying or manipulation.

But what makes a master influencer likeable?

Here are seven key components every influencer needs, if they want to both master the art of influencing others, as well as being liked at the same time!

#1: Learn to listen well, if you want to be a likeable master influencer

When we’re talking we want to feel listened to. It’s only when we feel valued that we’re more likely to want to build a rapport with another person. Listening is a key relationship-building skill. Not only does it help the other person feel valued, when we learn to listen well, they’ll also feel better connected with us too.

#2: Connect on an emotional level with people

Empathy is an important skill to master, for anyone who wants to become a master influencer. If people feel understood, they feel connected. They’re more likely to trust a person they have a connection with, and this again, leads to better relationships.

#3: Build on common ground

It’s important that you find common ground, if you want to build a rapport with someone. Regardless of whether you’re working towards a common goal, or have a shared interest, knowing what you have in common is the first step towards liking someone – and you can then look to further expand on that relationship.

#4: Be confident in yourself and your needs

A good influencer is someone who can clearly articulate their needs to others, in a confident way. We naturally gravitate towards confident people – they make us feel safe and we’re more likely to trust them too.

#5: Understand the importance of story

Stories are what make the world go round. Not only do they connect us together, they unite us too. When you understand the importance of story, you can become a key influencer, as you can effectively use story to illustrate your needs, share examples and highlight the importance of a shared cause. It’s only with the power of a story, that you can inspire others to become key characters in your world.

#6: Include others in your plans

When you use story to draw others into your world, you’re effectively including them in your plans. In short, by including them you help make them feel special and needed. Share how important it is for something to be achieved, add in a sense of urgency and give them a reason to get involved – and you’ll have them eager to help and ready to move forward.

#7: Be consistent with your identity

Finally, be consistent with your identity. If you want to be a likeable master influencer, you need to become associated as a reliable, trustworthy person – and this means having clear, definable beliefs, traits and ‘rules’ that people associate with you.

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