How CFOs Master the Art of Influence

09/06/2024 15:30:00 +0800
• Key takeaways from my Free 3-Day 'Find Your Voice' mini mentoring program
• Introducing a very exciting new program!
• Learn how CFOs can amplify their influence
 
I recently returned from my trip to the US as part of my investment in professional development and growth. I had intentionally invested in participating in an overseas, global coaching program because I know the best way to support my clients to have a greater impact is to amplify my impact first.
Leaders go first
As a leader, I know it's my role to go first. So putting myself in a bigger arena, and one that I wasn't familiar with was an important step that I knew I needed to take. But even so, I was surprised how uneasy I felt the day before. I was quite confused. I had committed the funds, committed the time - again, I had chosen to be there - but when I got there I didn't feel quite so ready. I felt really uncomfortable - which told me that I was on the right path.
 

When I got there and stepped into the room, I knew this was where I was meant to be. I was surrounded by like-minded people: other CEOs, founders and business owners doing really interesting things and who are, due to the very size and scale of America, think and lead in a completely different way. As a result, through their businesses they're having an incredible impact on the world...and this exactly why I was there.

"The only way to make your present better is by making your future bigger." - Dan Sullivan

To learn from people that think and act at a scale that isn't as readily accessible here. To learn how I can grow myself and my business in a way that has a more powerful impact on the clients I serve, the companies I partner with and the communities we serve. It was really inspiring to be there and learn with, and from these impressive people.

Which is why I've thoroughly enjoyed hosting our 3-Day "Find Your Voice" CFO mini mentoring program this week. I'm today's article, I'm thrilled to share some of the insights and key takeaways that emerged for our CFOs. PLUS, read until the end for all the details of my exciting new program.

Getting out of my comfort zone took on a new dimension when I travelled to dinner in a driverless car!
Understanding the Identity Iceberg
On the first day, we focused on the Identity Iceberg concept. This metaphor highlighted how much of your valuable work as CFOs remains hidden beneath the surface, unseen and unrecognised. We engaged in an exercise where participants listed their regular activities and categorised them as either visible or invisible to key stakeholders. This exercise was eye-opening; it made everyone realise how many critical contributions they make behind the scenes that go unnoticed.
 

When you make the unseen visible, you ensure that your full contributions are acknowledged and valued. By identifying these hidden activities, participants moved into Day 2's training with a clearer vision of where to focus their efforts to increase their visibility.

Finding Your Voice
The second day was all about finding and amplifying your voice. Having influence doesn't mean that you have to be pushy or loud. Rather, those with influence ensure that their insights and contributions are heard and valued.
 

During our program, we worked through practical exercises that helped CFOs identify ways to create a strong personal brand and position themselves as a key influencer within their organisations.

One of the most impactful exercises was reflecting on the personal benefits of increased visibility. This reflection helped everyone see the broader impact of finding their voice; not just on their career but on their overall well-being and work-life balance.

Announcing 'The CFO Amplifier'
The final day was dedicated to sharing other common challenges, paradigm shifts and solutions that I see working with CFOs every day. Some of the favourites included:
 

• It's easier than you think to get what you want.
• Support is most effective when it's timeless, not transactional
• Imposter syndrome is real

On Day 3 I also shared the news of the launch of my new program The CFO Amplifier, an immersive 12 week, small-group program designed to empower CFOs to build their networks and elevate their influence. Having completed an incredibly powerful pilot program, I'm delighted to be able to invite more CFOs to get the benefit of this very important work.

Through interactive online sessions, a supportive CFO community, and personalised guidance from yours truly, The CFO Amplifier participants gain the confidence, skills, and support they need to unlock their potential.

During the The CFO Amplifier Program participants learn;

• The single most effective way to command attention and respect in the boardroom
• How savvy CFOs are future-proofing their careers and driving organisational success
• How to become the CFO that your CEO can't afford to overlook
• The hidden cost of CFO isolation: why building a strong peer network is non-negotiable for success
• The CFO success code: the six critical factors that will skyrocket your influence and impact

To find out more, and see if you're a fit, visit The CFO Amplifier. Registrations for The CFO Amplifier program close on the 10th September 2024 and spots are limited.

I'd love to have you join me. And through my recent travels, I've been reminded at the feeling of trepidation of change, the exhilaration of possibility and the confidence of impact.

I wish that for you, and I look forward to seeing you there!

 


Author: Alena Bennett

Alena works with leaders and their teams to connect technical and leadership skills so they can deliver to deadline without killing their people.
 
She is a mentor, trainer, facilitator and coach. Contact her today on [email protected].
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We acknowledge the Darkinjung people, the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work and pay our respects to the Elders both past, present & emerging.