When it comes to making change happen, peer-to-peer (informal) influence is generally more powerful than the influence that comes from position (formal authority). Informal networks hold the sense-making power throughout an organisation, not senior leader-centric change. This graphic from @InnovisorInc, based on algorithmic applications with multiple organisations across many sectors, demonstrates this: Formal leaders – typically make up around 12% of a given organisational population - impact 45-50% of the people The most influential informal leaders – make up around 3% of the population - impact 85-90% of the people This “3%” group of informal influencers will make or break change & improvement initiatives. Most senior leaders do not know who these influencers are. As leaders of change, we need to: -Build approaches to change that embrace both formal & informal sources of influence -Identify informal networks & informal influencers (your 3%) -Engage them authentically in change & make sure the change makes sense to them -Build a relationship with them for the long haul (the most powerful influence is through relationships) -Influence others by being perceived as sympathetic, trustworthy & competent Whitepaper from Innovisor on “The 3% That Make Your Change Viral” (costs 2.49 euros): jeppehansgaard.gumroad.com/l… An earlier (free) explanation: innovisor.com/2017/05/30/how… Recording of a recent Innovisor seminar on the 3%: youtu.be/maE3il2j2C0 Via @JeppeHansgaard.