Book summary of Becoming a Person of Influence by John Maxwell
Becoming a Person of Influence by John Maxwell is a book that helps readers understand the different levels of influence and how to increase their influence in their lives. Maxwell defines influence as “the ability to make a difference in the lives of others.” He argues that influence is not about position or power, but about relationships and character.
The book is divided into two parts. The first part introduces the five levels of influence:
- Positional Influence
- Permissional Influence
- Relational Influence
- Expert Influence
- Transformational Influence
The second part of the book provides practical advice on how to increase your influence at each level. Maxwell offers tips on building relationships, developing character, and communicating effectively.
Becoming a Person of Influence is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to make a difference in the world. Maxwell’s insights are based on his decades of experience as a leader and teacher. He offers a clear and practical guide to influence that can help you reach your full potential.
II. The 5 Levels of Influence
In his book “Becoming a Person of Influence,” John Maxwell identifies five levels of influence:
- Positional Influence
- Permissional Influence
- Relational Influence
- Expert Influence
- Transformational Influence
Each level of influence is based on a different set of principles and practices. By understanding the different levels of influence, you can develop the skills and strategies you need to become a more influential person in your life and career.
In the following sections, we will take a closer look at each level of influence and discuss the key principles and practices that you need to master to achieve it.
Level 1: Positional Influence
Positional influence is the type of influence that comes from your position or title. This is the most basic level of influence, and it is often the easiest to obtain. However, it is also the least sustainable.
People who have positional influence are often seen as authorities on their subject matter. They may be CEOs, politicians, or other high-profile individuals. They may also have a lot of money or power.
Positional influence can be a powerful tool, but it can also be a dangerous one. People who have positional influence can easily abuse their power and become tyrants.
It is important for people with positional influence to use their power responsibly. They should always be mindful of the impact their decisions have on others, and they should always strive to be fair and just.
Level 2: Permissional Influence
Permissional influence is the ability to get others to do what you want by asking them for their permission. This type of influence is based on trust and respect. When people trust and respect you, they are more likely to want to do what you ask them to do.
There are a few things you can do to increase your permissional influence. First, be honest and trustworthy. People are more likely to trust you if they know that you are honest and that you will keep your word. Second, be respectful of others. People are more likely to respect you if you respect them. Third, be a good listener. People are more likely to trust and respect you if they know that you are interested in what they have to say.
When you have permissional influence, you can get others to do what you want without having to use force or coercion. This type of influence is much more effective and sustainable than the other types of influence.
Level 3: Relational Influence
Relational influence is the ability to influence others through your relationships. This type of influence is based on trust, respect, and credibility. When people trust and respect you, they are more likely to be influenced by your opinions and actions.
There are a few things you can do to increase your relational influence:
- Be trustworthy
- Be respectful
- Be credible
- Be consistent
- Be reliable
When you are trustworthy, respectful, credible, consistent, and reliable, people will be more likely to trust and respect you. This will make it easier for you to influence them.
Relational influence is a powerful tool that can be used to make a positive impact on the world. By building strong relationships and influencing others through those relationships, you can make a difference in the lives of others and help to create a better world.
Level 5: Transformational Influence
The highest level of influence is transformational influence. This is the ability to inspire and motivate others to change their lives for the better. Transformational influencers are able to see the potential in others and help them to realize their full potential. They are able to create a positive change in the world around them.
Some examples of transformational influencers include:
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Nelson Mandela
- Mother Teresa
- Mahatma Gandhi
- Bill Gates
These individuals have all had a profound impact on the world, not only through their words and actions, but also through their ability to inspire and motivate others. They have shown us that it is possible to make a difference in the world, and they have encouraged us to dream big and to never give up on our goals.
If you want to become a transformational influencer, you need to develop the following qualities:
- A strong sense of purpose
- A passion for helping others
- The ability to communicate effectively
- The ability to build relationships
- The ability to inspire and motivate others
If you have these qualities, you have the potential to become a transformational influencer and to make a positive difference in the world.
Level 7: Transformational Influence
The highest level of influence is transformational influence. This is the ability to change people’s lives for the better. Transformational leaders inspire others to reach their full potential and to make a difference in the world. They are able to create a positive ripple effect that can last for generations.
Transformational leaders are not born, they are made. They are people who have developed the skills and qualities necessary to inspire and motivate others. They are typically:
- Charismatic
- Inspiring
- Visionary
- Passionate
- Courageous
- Empathetic
- Trustworthy
- Accountable
If you want to become a transformational leader, you need to develop these qualities in yourself. You need to be someone who people can look up to and who inspires them to be the best they can be. You need to be someone who has a vision for the future and who can motivate others to join you in making that vision a reality.
Transformational leadership is not easy, but it is one of the most powerful forces for good in the world. If you have the courage to step up and lead, you can make a real difference in the lives of others.
How to Increase Your Influence
To increase your influence, you need to develop the following five qualities:
- Character
- Competence
- Connection
- Communication
- Commitment
You can develop these qualities by setting goals, taking action, and learning from your mistakes. As you grow in influence, you will be able to make a difference in the world.
In conclusion, Becoming a Person of Influence is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to increase their level of influence. John Maxwell provides a clear and concise framework for understanding the different types of influence and how to develop each one. He also offers practical advice on how to use your influence to make a positive impact on the world. If you’re serious about becoming a more influential person, I highly recommend reading this book.