You're a business owner who does whatever it takes to get the job done and grow your small business. But there’s one thing you may not be doing that could help you take your business to the next level: becoming a more influential leader.

Yes, being an influential leader can seem like a daunting task. But it’s not as difficult as you might think. Check out these eleven ideas to get you started:

1. Focus on building relationships. The better the relationships you have with others, the more influence you’ll have over them. Get to know them on a personal level and show them that you care about them as people, not just as employees or members of your team.

2. Be a good role model. People will be more likely to follow your lead if they see that you’re living the life you want them to live. If you want them to be honest, be honest yourself. If you want them to be hardworking, be a hard worker yourself. Show them that you believe in what you’re asking them to do.

3. Be clear about your vision. People need to know where you’re going and why you’re going there. They need to be able to see the benefits of following you. If you can clearly articulate your vision and show others how they can benefit from it, you’ll be much more successful in influencing them.

4. Use your words wisely. The words you use can either help or hinder your efforts to influence others. Choose your words carefully and always communicate with respect.

5. Be authentic

The most important thing you can do to become a more influential leader is to be authentic. People can sense when you’re being genuine and when you’re not, so it’s important to be authentic in your interactions with others.

6. Be confident

Another important quality of an influential leader is confidence. People are drawn to confident leaders and are more likely to follow their lead. If you’re not naturally confident, that’s okay. Just fake it until you make it.

7. Be passionate

Passion is also key when it comes to being an influential leader. People are more likely to be influenced by someone who is passionate about what they’re doing. So, if you want to be a more influential leader, make sure you’re passionate about your business and what you’re doing.

8. Be persistent

Finally, influential leaders are persistent. They don’t give up easily and they’re always looking for ways to improve. If you want to be a more influential leader, you need to be willing to put in the hard work and never give up on your dreams.

9. Be decisive

Leaders need to be able to make decisions. If you're indecisive, people will see you as weak and uncertain.

10. Be inspiring

Inspire others with your words and your actions. Show them what's possible and help them to see the best in themselves.

11. Be humble

Leaders need to be humble. It's okay to be confident, but don't be arrogant. Remember that you're not better than anyone else, you're just in a position to lead. One last thought... Don’t try to force your influence. People can sense when you’re trying to control them and they’ll resist. Instead, focus on being an effective leader and let your influence flow naturally from that. If you focus on these things, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more influential leader.