Influence is one of the most frequently used — and least clearly understood — concepts in the workplace. Most professionals recognize that they need to influence others to get things done, especially in complex and cross-functional environments. However, influence is often confused with persuasion, authority or even personal charisma. This lack of clarity leads to…

In many organizations, persuasion and influence are often used interchangeably. Professionals are expected to communicate effectively, align stakeholders and drive decisions — yet the distinction between persuading and influencing is rarely made explicit. This lack of clarity leads to behaviours that can limit effectiveness, especially in complex and cross-functional environments. Understanding the difference between persuasion…