Howzat! David Harker's bowled over

Aug 21 2009 By Alastair Gilmour, The Journal

David Harker on influence

What, in your opinion, is influence?

Influence is that ability to encourage others to challenge themselves.

Is influence the same as power?

It is different to power which is the authority to compel compliance. In a business environment a chief executive may have the power to require a minimum standard of behaviour but may not have earned the respect that is necessary to influence exceptional performance.

Who or what have you been most influenced by?

My parents and my own North East upbringing have been the greatest influences on me.

Who or what has most benefited from your influence?

I hope that I will have a positive influence on the development of my own two young daughters Amy and Kate.

To be influential you must...

Have earned respect.