6 days ago
245: Influence Without Authority

Sean shares a story from his time leading a company integration where he had zero direct reports yet still managed to move projects forward and earn trust. He breaks down the three keys to influencing without authority: building credibility, investing in relationships, and asking the right questions.
It’s a reminder that real leadership isn’t about a title or barking order, it’s about trust, respect, and helping people find ownership in the work.
Podcast Show Notes – Episode 245 | 09.02.2025
Episode Title: Influence Without Authority
Key Moments
0:00 - Influencing without authority and company integration
1:06 - Employee aspirations and credibility
2:46 - Building relationships and asking the right questions
4:58 - Supporting the team and building trust
Key Takeaways
- Building credibility through expertise encourages others to listen and value your input.
- Genuine relationships foster trust and create a positive, collaborative environment.
- Asking the right questions empowers team members to think critically and take ownership of their work.
Host: Sean Barnes
Website:
https://www.wolfexecutives.com
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfexecutives
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewayofthewolf/
LinkedIn Newsletter:
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7284600567593684993/
The Wolf Leadership Series:
https://wolfexecutives.com/wolf-leadership-series/
YouTube:
youtube.thewayofthewolf.com
Twitter:
https://x.com/the_seanbarnes
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes
https://www.instagram.com/wolfexecutives
https://www.instagram.com/the_wayofthewolf
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@the_seanbarnes
Email: Sean@thewayofthewolf.com
Audible:
https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15
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