Becoming a Thought leader
If you make a conscientious goal to develop into a thought leader, you want to build a platform, both in what you say and where you’re saying it. You can get started slowly and, before you know it, you will become a respected authority. Some of the strategies to try include:
- Package your observations, thoughts, experiences or research into internal memos or briefing documents on products or markets. You can also get involved in internal program groups and volunteer to make presentations.
- Contribute to the development of white papers, volunteer to support external presentations, or start a series of strategic customer conversations to help you connect with market needs and trends.
- Join industry associations or professional groups. The industry associations will have program committees to join where you can help with the selection of speakers and program topics—this opens your horizons to experts’ new ideas and concepts. You will see how their approach can influence your own thoughts and individual offerings—and over time, you’ll probably also be asked to host events, lead panels, or speak.
- Ultimately, you can start writing a blog, a newsletter, or even a book. These require a more concerted effort. But, the truth is that once you get going, this is a natural next step for many people.
We have seen these strategies work in both big and small companies, as well as in product and service businesses. Today’s economy makes it possible, and maybe even obligatory, for everyone to increase their success through thought leadership.
