Making friends in the workplace has never been more rewarding.
Armed with reams of new data, companies, including giants Apple, Cadbury and Cisco Systems Inc., are seeking out "influencers" among their employees who are particularly well-connected and trusted by their peers.
Once found, the firms are harnessing these workers' clout to come up with new products, get workers on board with big changes like mergers, or spread information throughout the organisation.
Years ago, such employees often went unnoticed, lost in organisational charts. But the rise of social media has highlighted the importance of networks, and companies are determined to capitalise on the power players lurking in their workforces. The influencers reap benefits, too: more money, promotions and opportunities to rub shoulders with top executives.
To find these people, some companies conduct surveys and offer self-assessments, such as DiSCus Personality Profiling, to help the employee know themselves better. The result is often mapped out as a spider web of connections. Managers say the influencers are sometimes already in jobs that reflect their skills—such as a project manager who works with several departments.
Indeed, many companies say they are identifying a previously invisible layer of talent, key players who may not be posting top results on their own but are boosting performance across the organisation.
Influencer Traits
• Outgoing: Extroverted and exuberant but also good self-monitors.
• Empathetic: Approachable and able to sympathise.
• Accessible: Fully present and welcoming.
• Energising: Fellow employees feel invigorated by them.
• Optimistic: They focus on solutions, not what can't work.
Sources: The Wall Street Journal, February 12, 2014 and Management professors Adam Kleinbaum and Robert Cross
Business Tips
Influencers Wanted
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- Parent Category: Business Tips
- Category: Self-Motivation & Awareness
