Being an Engaging Executive isn’t just about leading—it’s about leading and influencing your colleagues with finesse. It’s about guiding your colleagues in a way that benefits them and propels your career forward. And one of the most effective ways to do this is through the subtle art of the “Pull style.” Now, let’s explore what the Pull style precisely entails and how you can master it to become a more influential leader in your workplace. The Pull style is all about influence, but its impact is done right. It’s about drawing people toward your goals rather than pushing them. Instead of micromanaging or dictating, you guide, empower, and inspire those around you to discover their reasons for aligning with your vision.
But why is the Pull style so powerful?
Well, it all comes down to psychology. Pulling someone towards a goal rather than pushing makes the person feel valued and respected. They think they’re part of something bigger than themselves and that their contributions matter. As a result, they’re more motivated, engaged, and committed to achieving the shared objectives.
How do you actually use the Pull style in practice?
It starts with asking the right questions. Instead of telling people what to do, ask them thought-provoking questions that lead them to the desired outcome. Use open-ended questions like “What do you think about this approach?” or “How do you see yourself contributing to this project?” These questions encourage critical thinking and empower people to take ownership of their actions. But remember, it’s not just about the questions you ask—it’s also about how you ask them.
Your tone, demeanour, and body language should convey warmth, curiosity, and respect. Be approachable, open-minded, and non-threatening, and make people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas with you. Another critical aspect of the Pull style is using inclusive language. Instead of saying “I” or “you,” use “we,” “us,” and “our.” This reinforces the idea that everyone is in it together and everyone’s contributions are valued.
Now, let’s talk about putting the Pull style into action.
The next time you have a meeting or a discussion where you need to influence others, try to resist the urge to give orders or make demands. Instead, focus on asking questions and listening actively to the responses. Pay attention to what people say and how they say it. Look for opportunities to guide the conversation towards your desired outcome without imposing your will on others. And don’t be afraid to experiment and adapt your approach as needed. The Pull style is not a one-size-fits-all solution—it requires flexibility and finesse. Keep refining your skills, learning from your experiences, and seeking feedback from others.
Is the Pull style right for you?
I encourage you to take real-life examples of the Pull style in action. Talk to other Engaging Executives in your organisation or industry and learn from their experiences. Watch how they interact with their colleagues and observe the impact of their leadership style. Ask them straight up how they are influencing their colleagues with finesse. In conclusion, mastering the Pull style requires patience, practice, and perseverance. But the rewards are well worth the effort.
Unleashing the Power of the Pull Style: Influencing Your Colleagues with Finesse
Becoming a more influential leader who empowers and inspires others will advance your career and create a more positive and productive work environment for everyone. One cornerstone of the pull-style method is giving feedback. It’s critical to unlocking your team’s full potential and hitting those goals. Curious about honing this skill and becoming a feedback pro? ur blog post, “Teaching Leaders the Art of Effective Feedback,” has all the juicy details. So, are you ready to unleash the power of the Pull style and become the Engaging Executive you were meant to be? Click here to schedule a chat with us.
Not sure if the Pull method could work for you?
Check out a pull style in action with this link shared by one of our Engaging Executives in training. As always, stay tuned to our LinkedIn page and blog posts for more tips on how to reach your goals by becoming an Engaging Executive, ready to take on your office, industry and the world.