How influence really works in modern leadership

Feb 6, 2026

Guest

Diana Torres

Guest

Niro Sivanathan

Diana Torres, seasoned corporate leader who runs complex turnarounds, and Niro Sivanathan, organisational behaviour professor studying leadership and status. They explore why people seek assertive direction in crises. They discuss balancing clear vision with team input. They examine when dominance helps or harms, and why transparency, trust and succession matter for lasting influence.

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INSIGHT

Crisis Drives Demand For Dominant Leaders

Economic uncertainty increases the appeal of dominant, assertive leaders.
People trade autonomy for a perceived restoration of control under crisis.

ADVICE

Use The Power Of Three

Give a clear, focused vision and limit priorities to a few key areas.
Then empower teams to execute by delegating responsibility and motivating people.

INSIGHT

Compensatory Control Explains Followership

Compensatory control explains why people accept reduced autonomy under stress.
Confidence and assertiveness signal that a leader can restore order, even if not guaranteed.

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In a world defined by uncertainty, the leaders who thrive are those who understand how influence, trust and human psychology shape decision-making and team performance.

In this episode of Think Ahead, Sergei Guriev, Professor of Economics and Dean at London Business School, sits down with Niro Sivanathan, Professor of Organisational Behaviour at London Business School, and Diana Torres, Senior Managing Director at Teneo, to explore how leadership is evolving in complex, high-pressure environments.

Together, they examine why people seek strong direction during turbulent times, how leaders can set a compelling vision without closing off crucial feedback, and the powerful role of transparency in building trust. From managing hybrid teams to navigating crisis-driven expectations, this episode unpacks what truly drives influence in modern organisations.

Tune in to learn:

How uncertainty impacts the psychology of leadership and why clarity becomes essential

The difference between providing direction and limiting innovation

Why trust, accountability and communication now determine long-term performance

Practical insights on empowering teams, shaping culture and leading through complexity

Whether you are guiding an organisation through transformation or building your own leadership approach, this episode offers research-backed insights and real-world experience from two perspectives: behavioural science and frontline corporate leadership.

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