Use Informal Leaders

Every group has one, an informal leader that is, someone who influences others in the group more than average without a title or position. Informal leaders shape expectations and influences decisions often through their referent power. While most groups have a formal leader; someone identified by a position or title, they may not be the one with the most influence. Let me provide a semi-comical example most of us can relate to either personally or through observation. We have all seen it, parents strolling through the mall with kids in tow. When one of the children suddenly decides they want to see this or do that. And while the “formal” leader the parent protests, soon the entire family is at the pet store staring at puppies, or checking out balloons, or even worse spending money on the momentary distraction. So what happened? In this example our little informal leader knew the cues required to get attention drawn to his agenda and create sufficient influence to support it.
Another familiar scenario can be set in the workplace. The formal leader may call a well intended meeting with a planned agenda and objective, but the meeting soon deteriorates as attendees redirect their attention on the informal leader’s influence. These distractions can be quippable questions, criticizing comments or just plain immature antics.
The key to success is to use the informal leader. A little time invested up front to get buy in from them or at least run down some of their questions prior to execution will translate into a great investment in influence. By using the informal leader, group members will present less resistance and participate more, generating stronger results, which in turn will facilitate group accomplishment and satisfaction. Not to mention the reduced stress you’ll feel in trying to lead a group of individuals.