True influencers possess the following attributes:
- They are knowledgeable in their respective fields.
- They are able to see a wider perspective of interconnections, interdependencies and possibilities across many disciplines.
- They are willing to take risks to expand their knowledge and make good things happen.
- They inspire other people to be their best.
- They are sincere.
Now for some context:
Being knowledgeable in one's field is undeniably important, but it is not the only component needed to be influential. Thus, my second point: A well-rounded person will be far more influential than someone who focuses narrowly one area of expertise. We live in a complex world. No single tool, technology or body of knowledge will address the challenges that stand before us. The world sorely needs people who can help others connect between and amongst each other, making the ability to interrelate among professions, cultures and people a critically-needed skill. This skill requires the guts (my third point) to initiate action and a contagious spirit of possibility (my fourth point). However, points no. 3 and 4 must always be underscored by point no. 5: utter sincerity. I have witnessed true sincerity in action a few times in my professional life, and the results are profound. I have seen people turn around wounded, dispirited organizations into productive, enjoyable places to work.
To provide a global example of an influencer who embodies all of the attributes outlined above, consider a point-by-point snapshot of anthropologist and humanitarian Jane Goodall:
1. Dr. Goodall conducted ground-breaking research in the field of primatology, forever changing how we view and study primates and ourselves.
2. She clearly sees how hunger, disease and poverty as well as lack of infrastructure, education and health care affect people, causing them to destroy the few remaining habitats for chimpanzees through deforestation and the brutal bush meat trade. In response, she has developed and devoted her entire life to addressing the dire needs of impoverished humans while continuing to advocate for chimpanzees.
3. Dr. Goodall travels the globe well over 300 days a year to spread her message and promote positive changes. It is exhausting work. After any given lecture, she will stay for hours to sign books and connect with the many people who adore her. She knows that she must give of herself to help others make the changes required to nurture our planet back to health.
4. Dr. Goodall knows that the future of our world depends on educating young people to care for the planet--see her Roots and Shoots movement--and showing anyone willing to listen the many things we can each do to enact changes. She makes the impossible seem possible and encourages people to alter unsustainable patterns of consumption and live better lives. See her reasons for hope as an example.
5. Jane Goodall is completely unassuming and unpretentious. Yet she has established herself as a central figure in anthropology, humanitarianism, resource management, and far more. To use a cliche, she leads by example.
Influencing is not simply about being vocal or visible or having one's finger on the pulse of a new trend. A person cannot declare him or herself an influencer. To truly influence in 2009 (or any year, for that matter) requires a heartfelt purpose that inspires action in others. Such people are memorable and enduring, and we desperately need them.
