Influence now rests on how others experience an individual rather than formal titles or positions. Long tenure and past authority can evaporate after organizational change, leaving diminished visibility and support. Social capital refers to the goodwill arising from social relations and the information, influence, and solidarity they provide. Loss of relationships erodes support and influence. Rebuilding influence requires restoring relationships and measuring progress through four indicators: Respect, Energized interactions, Action resulting from input, and Loyalty earned through personal connections. Emotional connection amplifies behavioral impact, and sustainable influence depends on deeply personal, relationship-based work.
Sarah found herself at a crossroads. She had spent 20 years in her company, and that counted for something. People listened to her in meetings, her opinion was valued, and if she asked for something to be done, invariably it would be. But that seemed to be changing. Her company had just been bought by a larger business, and new people were running her department. Given that and an influx of younger colleagues, she felt less appreciated and less visible.
It's easy to take our social capital for granted. Social capital is often defined as "The goodwill available to individuals or groups. Its source lies in the structure and content of the actor's social relations. Its effects flow from the information, influence, and solidarity it makes available to the actor." In other words, it's the support we get because of our relationships with others. If we lose the relationships, as Sarah was experiencing, we lose the support and the influence that goes with it.
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