We can exert an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something to cause a change.  The results of our influential behavior can have a strong effect on outcomes (i.e., a real impact).

Impact and influence are two of the most powerful tools in the leaders kitbag.  These terms become more powerful when described in the context of invisible influence leading to beneficial impact.

Success through Others

Successful leaders are determined by their accomplishments.  In some cases these are personal accomplishments but most often they are result of group and team efforts.

The leader is recognized as the catalyst but without the dedication and skill of a variety of other stakeholders, failure is likely on the horizon.

Leveraging the ability of others to effectively create an impact, using indirect guidance, is the art of influence.  A key to success is the invisibiity of the influence behavious.

Put another way, influencing other people to achieve great positive inpact without anyone recognizing what you are doing. 

Recognition 

The positive achievements lead to recogniton of those that actively did the work.  Without a strong and effective leader it is unlikely such outcomes would be achieved.

However, the leader is the background influencer whose satifaction lies not with receiving personal recognition for their part in the achievements.

That is to say, direct recognition is not needed, strong leaders know self gratification is enough.