Great work gets you noticed. Influence gets things done. Most talented people in large organisations master one and ignore the other — then wonder why their best ideas go nowhere. This article makes the case that influence is not politics. It has a science, an art, and three distinct directions: up, lateral, and down. Real senior talent operates fluently in all three.

Lately, it feels like every second headline on the internet is either about AI… or job cuts. And in between those headlines are real people — friends, colleagues, former teammates — reaching out, looking for clarity, connection, or simply someone to talk to about their careers and what’s next.

Leaders can foster trust and cooperation by embracing empathy. Simon inspires organizations to create fulfilling environments.