Key Questions for Aspiring Thought Leaders
A key objective of this blog is to get into conversations with aspiring thought leaders and I think one frequent conversation topic will be on what it takes to become a thought leader.
As another conversation starter on this topic, I am working on a list of questions that thought leaders should consider when they start their journey.
This is work in progress and I look forward to hearing your comments.
You need to deliver sharp insights that make a difference. What makes what you bring to the table worthwhile for others? How can you create such insights frequently over time?
How will you share your sharp insights? How will you engage into conversations with your audience? Do you really have the time for this? This takes just as much time – if not more – than creating the insights.
How will you define and develop your personal brand?
How strong is your network? How can you further build your network? How can you activate your network in order to reach your goals?
You might have to go through a longer period of time where you work hard without making any money. You might have to give up lots of free time. Are you willing to make such sacrifices?
Have you looked into your key qualifications for becoming a thought leader? You need a combination of talent, persistence, flexibility and luck. Yes, everyone needs some luck. What is your combination?
What can you add?
Open mind using a holistic approach. Dare to be different and continue my own way of learning while working smart. Participate in different discussions and appreciate all kind of people and their knowledge without judging. Strive for getting insights and wisdom. Enjoy the journey with compassion.
I believe that it is a combination of being receptive and hungry for new ideas combined with personal culture of communication and a dedication to knowledge sharing.
I like the way you are thinking, Stefan! As you mention in an earlier post, the Wikipedia definition talks about being recognized by mentors and peers for having innovative ideas as well as the courage to share them. In my book 24 Carat BOLD: The Standard for REAL Thought Leaders, I propose that the only failure of that definition is that it is not only your mentors and peers who decide whether you are a thought leader or not.
Increasingly, it is the market that decides – your clients, customers, prospects and people that you interact with online. Therefore social media is a key component in any serious thought leadership strategy.
Finally – I think that to be a true thought leader in today’s crowded market, you need to be writing and publishing in traditional print media as well as online. Online, you will find millions and millions of other ‘experts’, whereas *only* about one million people per year publish print books. I think people still hold an author with a real book (a good one – with good content and professionally produced) in higher esteem than someone who just blogs.
Best of luck with the work you’re doing!