You can begin or increase your level of influence with the colleagues who are on the same team as you. In The Leadership Mandate I wrote about the 5 main areas of influence, one of those being work. In regards to work I wrote, “Anyone has the potential to influence and impact subordinates, colleagues, direct managers, and upper management. This allows you to become a 360 degree influencer within your current job position.” Since the average person spend a significant amount of time within a work environment, it would benefit us to adapt the characteristics that allow us to be an influential team member. Below are 7 of the core characteristics you should know and adapt:

1. Positive attitude-

A positive attitude really does matter. Winston Churchill said, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” People are drawn and want to work with those who consistently possess a positive and optimistic attitude. To be an influential team member always chose to have a positive attitude.

2. Competent-

Being competent comes when you are strong in a specific skill set, knowledgeable and also experienced within your chosen field. Performing on a level that allows you to deliver maximum results is one of the byproducts of being competent. It places you in a position where you are able to not only increase your influence with other team member but also with your boss. Be and remain competent by becoming a lifelong learner.

3. Dependable-

An influential team member is dependable. This is when everyone on the team knows that you will show up (physically and mentally) and deliver only your best work. It has been said that, “Being dependable, on time and a productive worker is the best employment insurance there is.” ~Unknown Author Commit to being dependable will allow you to have influence within your team.

4. Relational-

Relationships and influence are closely connected. Being a person of influence comes when you build friendships and stay connected to the lives of those you wish to influence. This happens by using some of your best time and energy on the people around you. To get to know and stay connected with them. Take time on a regular basis to maintain your professional relationships with those on your team.

5. Vision focused

Those who have influence on a team are vision focused. There are two main areas that these individuals are vision focused. First, they have a vision of the work they are personally doing that will help the team win and secondly they also have a big picture of how their team’s contribution impacts the overall company’s goals. They grab a hold of the vision and take action by contributing their personal best.

6. Collaborative-

An effective team works together. They are united in achieving the team’s purpose and goals. Mattie Stepanek said, “Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.” This happens when the team get alone (Being relational) and works together. When you have some influence with your team, you should work to join and unit the other team members together. This will create a team that more productive and in turn will allow you to be seen as an influential team member.

7. Encouraging-

There is power in a kind word of encouragement. Everyone wants to feel cared about and valued. An encouraging word to a team member can bring strong positive emotions that will lift them up. Consistently speaking encouraging words to those on your team, will build respect and your team will want to be around you. It will allow you to be seen as a positive influencer.

Question: Can you add to the list? What are some other characteristics that allow a person to be an influential team member?