Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions at work? You're maintaining your responsibilities, but you just don't feel like you're making professional progress. Sometimes when you hit this point, it's natural to consider changing jobs or changing careers altogether. However, Lolly Daskal, president and CEO of global consultancy Lead From Within, says that this can be a sign that you need to become more influential in your current job, rather than changing jobs.

How do you become more influential? Daskal says to start by examining your current workplace relationships. In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share Daskal's five tips for bringing the best of what you have to offer to workplace relationships.

1. Influence your boss. Build a great relationship with your boss by being engaging and effective. That means not going to the boss only with problems, but also to brainstorm about solutions and new creative ideas. Become a person who can be counted on, who can solve problems and create solutions. Being held in high esteem by your boss is one of the best kinds of influence.

2. Influence meetings. Every organization has meetings, and most of us dread them. But meetings can be a great opportunity to grow your influence. You can become the person who listens when everyone else is speaking and the one who expresses ideas when everyone else is silent. When others are confused, you can help to clarify, adding in your own two cents. The idea is to be present when others check out, to be heard when others aren't contributing and to listen when others are speaking.

3. Influence your colleagues. It's likely that most of your peers just want someone to listen to them, and someone to whom they can vent. When they do, it's best to stay neutral and avoid getting caught up in the drama. Try to be the person who listens to others, shows appreciation, validates their work and chips in when they need help.

4. Influence your team. Teams are made up of individuals, each with their own cultural background, experience and work style. One way to exercise influence in your team is to make sure everyone feels valued. If you can be the person who appreciates everyone's opinions and viewpoints, you'll be seen as someone who appreciates others, and in turn you'll be well respected. People are grateful to those who acknowledge and appreciate them, so be kind to your team.

5. Influence yourself. As you're supporting, engaging and enabling others, don't forget about yourself. Take time to work on your own needs and growth.

If you are feeling a bit complacent at work, rather than looking for a new job, first look within yourself for solutions. Try these tips to increase your influence and re-ignite your passion for your current role.

Source: Lolly Daskal is president and CEO of Lead From Within, a global consultancy that specializes in leadership and entrepreneurial development. Daskal's programs galvanize clients into achieving their best, helping them accelerate and deliver on their professional goals and business objectives. Her new book is The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You And Your Greatness.