The Secret to Being an Influencer as a Science Leader

Abstract

AbstractRecently, most people are beginning to show interest in becoming influencers in their various fields. However, very few take cognizance of the secrets to becoming influential in leadership especially as a scientist. The ability to persuade and attract others to think and agree with your decisions consequently earning their trust and loyalty is a potent force in becoming a personage. There are salient secrets a science leader should know in order to be influential. Such secrets include knowing your core values and strength, building on them while working on your weaknesses; believing in yourself to be confident; maximizing every benefiting opportunity and leveraging on them; communicating effectively by listening before persuading; maintaining a good rapport with science leaders who are an inspiration to you; toning your body language so as not to be misunderstood; improving on skills and expertise by attending seminars and trainings; mapping a strategy by creating a plan on how to impact your target audience; and aligning research designs to suit the needs, perspectives, and temperaments of the people you want to affect. It is also important to celebrate one’s successes and work toward exceeding one’s best. There is actually no limit to the level of influence a science leader can attain. If the secrets to being an “influencer” are utilized, gathering supporters and followers becomes lauded because of the positive impact made in the lives of the people.KeywordsInfluencerScience leadershipCore valuesDevelopmentManaging STEMM careerScience followershipMaximizerConfidence in careerStrength of characterSetting goalsCompetenceBoundary spannerAbsorptive capacityCommunicationEmpowerment in STEMMStrategy for career growthMentoringBuilding relationship