Influence Is Built, Not Inherited

Influence used to feel like something reserved for “big names” or natural-born networkers, but my journey lately has unraveled that myth. I’ve discovered that building authentic influence is possible for anyone willing to approach it with intention and the right framework.

This revelation started with a fresh perspective that landed in my lap when I truly needed it, almost as if the universe was sending a message wrapped in the pages of a book I read: "Key Person of Influence" by Daniel Priestley.

I used to think visibility was about being everywhere all at once, louder, faster, more aggressive. But what if it’s actually about showing up with focus, depth, and generosity? The five steps that anchor this approach, Pitch, Publish, Product, Profile, and Partnership, removed so much confusion for me and made the path feel not just possible, but personal. Each step, rather than being a formula to memorise, felt more like a gentle door opening. It made me ask: How am I already bringing value? Where am I holding back from stepping forward?

1. Pitch

This was the biggest hurdle: trying to distil my work into a few compelling words always felt artificial or, frankly, anxiety-inducing. But now, pitching is a kind of clarity practice. Instead of crafting what sounds impressive, I’ve learned to focus on how I really help, why it matters, and making it so clear that anyone can “get it” straight away. The value here is practical: when I’m at a client meeting, a community event, or even just chatting at a local café, I can now communicate what I do without the awkward stumble. The conversation feels natural, even energising. The real test is: “If you can’t explain what you do in 15 seconds, maybe you don’t know what you do.” It’s a truth that gets me reflecting and refining almost daily.

2. Publish

Before, I treated publishing as something to check off a list. Social posts, articles, even internal communications carried little sense of purpose. But now, sharing my experiences and insights isn’t about chasing likes or recognition; it’s about generosity. When I consistently put ideas out there, something subtle shifts: trust grows before any transaction or request enters the picture. It’s as much about building a living record of what I stand for as it is about reaching new eyes. Publishing this way becomes a low-pressure, sustainable habit. Suddenly, people I didn’t expect reach out, often referencing something I wrote months ago.

3. Product

If you’d asked me a year ago whether my expertise could be turned into a real, scalable offering, I’d have hesitated. But the practical prompt to package what I know into a course, toolkit, or workflow changed my mindset from “working harder” to “working smarter.” My impact is no longer limited by the hours in my day. It also feels deeply rewarding to see a workshop or guide I built out living on beyond that initial delivery. And it’s not just about money; it’s about seeing my knowledge truly help people, sometimes far beyond my immediate sphere. I’m still learning here, but that feeling is fascinating and motivating.

4. Profile

I’ll admit, I cringed at ‘personal branding.’ To me, it sounded boastful or fake. But seeing profile building as a way to make myself discoverable for the right people changed everything. A strong, authentic profile isn’t vanity; it’s service. It allows those who need what I offer to actually find me. Consistency is key. Show up as the person you truly are, and over time, the right connections naturally flow your way. I’ve witnessed it. Old acquaintances returning, new ones reaching out, and even small, local opportunities I never would have seen otherwise

5. Partnership

What I appreciate most about this journey is how the five steps answer a very real, very practical need. They aren’t about overnight transformation but about steady, strategic, deeply personal progress. If you take nothing else away, know this: influence is built in daily moments. Honest conversations. Small acts of sharing. An openness to collaborate. For anyone who feels drowned out by louder voices, I can confidently say this pathway is possible. What you’re searching for—clarity, connection, growth—begins with simple, consistent action. The Scorecard tool I discovered helped me pinpoint my strengths and see where to focus next. It’s free, easy to try, and if you let it, opens up a world of possibility.

Shift Your Perspective to Build Real Influence

So, if you’ve been wondering how to make your voice heard, or questioning if influence is even possible for you, I’d encourage you to shift your perspective. See your network as a garden. Lead genuine conversations. Build something lasting, one practical step at a time.

Try the Key Person of Influence Scorecard. Sometimes, the only nudge you need is knowing you’re already partway there—and with the right tools and reflections, the rest gets easier every day.

Progress Is Personal, Not Performative

What I appreciate most about this journey is how the five steps answer a very real, very practical need. They aren’t about overnight transformation but about steady, strategic, deeply personal progress.

If you take nothing else away, know this: influence is built in daily moments. Honest conversations. Small acts of sharing. An openness to collaborate.

For anyone who feels drowned out by louder voices, I can confidently say this pathway is possible. What you’re searching for—clarity, connection, growth—begins with simple, consistent action.

The Scorecard tool I discovered helped me pinpoint my strengths and see where to focus next. It’s free, easy to try, and if you let it, opens up a world of possibility.