A Guide to Creating Leadership Energy That Moves People

Jim Knight
Nov 6
4 min read

A group claps for a smiling woman in a striped shirt near a whiteboard with colorful notes. Bright setting, joyful mood.

What makes a leader truly unforgettable? It’s not just their charisma or charm—it’s their ability to energize and inspire action.

Research shows that the most effective leaders generate energy so powerful that 69% of their team members are willing to go the extra mile. This isn’t just about motivation; it’s about creating a ripple effect that transforms teams and drives results.

As a keynote speaker and thought leader (Knight Speaker LLC), I specialize in helping leaders harness this transformative energy. Through tailored strategies and actionable insights, I empower others to lead with impact, boost team morale, and achieve measurable success.

Are you curious to learn how you can develop a drive that moves people? Dive into the practical tips and real-world examples that will elevate your leadership game.

What is Leadership Energy? And How is It Different from Charisma?

The term “leadership energy” refers to the dynamic force that leaders bring into a room. It’s the ability to inspire, motivate, and drive people forward—not through authority but through presence, attitude, and intentional actions.

Now, you might wonder how this is different from charisma. Charisma is often connected with charm, confidence, and a certain “star quality” that draws others in effortlessly.

And while charisma can capture attention temporarily, leadership energy is more lasting. It’s not about shining the spotlight on yourself; it’s about lighting the way for others.

This particular drive creates a ripple effect, empowering people to act and perform at their best, long after you’ve left the room.

Here’s the key difference: charisma can captivate, but leadership energy moves people. It’s the spark that turns inspiration into measurable action and impact.

The Secret to Developing a Presence that Energizes

Two colleagues in an office give a high-five, smiling. Background shows charts on a board, plants, and city view. Warm, collaborative mood.

Because I believe people are the way they are because of learned behaviors, the motivation to lead isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you cultivate over time. You have to recognize it, study it and act upon it. And you can get better at it over time.

Developing a presence that energizes your team isn’t about always being the loudest or most confident person in the room. Instead, it’s about showing up as someone others can trust, rally around, and believe in.

Here are three simple but powerful ways to build that presence:

1. Be Authentically You

People can sense when you’re trying too hard to be someone else. True energizing presence comes from being real.

Whether you’re naturally introverted or extroverted, lean into your strengths. Share your personal experiences, admit when you don’t know the answer, and show your genuine commitment to the team’s success.

2. Master Empathy

Great leaders understand people—not just their roles but their motivations, pains, and joys. Take the time to really connect with your team.

Ask questions and listen without judgment. When people feel seen and supported, they’ll naturally feel more energized and connected to the shared goals.

3. Bring Optimism, Even When It’s Hard

Leadership momentum thrives on hope and possibility. That doesn’t mean ignoring challenges, but it does mean looking for opportunities within adversity.

Your attitude can set the tone for the entire team. If you show resilience and optimism, your team will follow suit.

Actionable Strategies to Energize Your Team

Four people celebrate in an office with raised arms. A screen displays pie charts. The mood is cheerful, with laptops and notes on the table.

Bringing this vitality into your daily interactions takes intentional effort. These practical tips will help you create an energizing environment for your team:

Lead by Example

If you want your team to be energized and motivated, you need to walk the talk. Show up with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. Whether it’s tackling a difficult project or handling setbacks, your behavior will set the standard for your team.

Celebrate Small Wins

Even minor achievements deserve recognition. A quick acknowledgment can go a long way in boosting morale. Celebrate the small victories–in public or private–to build momentum and show your team members that you appreciate their efforts.

Encourage Ownership

Trust your team enough to delegate meaningful work. When people feel ownership over their tasks, they’re more likely to give their best effort. Provide guidance, but avoid micromanaging.

Foster Open Communication

Leadership drive also involves creating a space where people can share ideas, feedback, and concerns openly. Make it clear that every voice matters, and watch as your team feels more connected and engaged.

Real-World Examples of Leadership Energy

woman holding smiling while standing table

Some of today’s most successful leaders exemplify the concept of leadership momentum.

Take Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand. Her empathetic and compassionate authority energized an entire nation during crises like the horrendous Christchurch mosque attacks and COVID-19.

She showcased how vulnerability and strength can coexist in command, inspiring action on a massive scale.

What sets leaders like this apart isn’t just their expertise—it’s their ability to connect with people, radiate positivity, and empower teams to perform beyond expectations.

The ROI of Leadership Energy

If you’re wondering whether leadership energy is just about “feeling good,” think again. It has tangible impacts on team performance and loyalty.

When leaders bring motivation into their interactions, teams are more likely to feel motivated and aligned with organizational goals.

This often results in higher productivity, lower turnover, and improved morale. According to studies, companies with highly engaged employees outperform their competitors by 147% in earnings per share, something I will be highlighting in my upcoming book, Engagement That Rocks.

By focusing on creating this momentum, you’re not just boosting your team’s morale—you’re driving measurable business outcomes.