Leaders come in a variety of shapes and sizes and from any number of industries and professions. They all would probably claim to have some level of influence or they wouldn't hold their position.
One key ingredient for today's leader is often missing, however. It's the element of thought leadership.
Thought leadership is a fairly recent term, less than 20 years old. The general idea is that a thought leader is recognized as having innovative ideas or analysis about trending topics. As a result, his or her thoughts are followed by a variety of people and companies.
One key ingredient for today's leader is often missing, however. It's the element of thought leadership.
Thought leadership is a fairly recent term, less than 20 years old. The general idea is that a thought leader is recognized as having innovative ideas or analysis about trending topics. As a result, his or her thoughts are followed by a variety of people and companies.
Names like Tom Peters and Jim Collins come to mind for business. Rick Warren and Bill Hybels are influencers in Christian circles.
But, any leader can and, frankly, should provide thought leadership. I don't mean they should become household names or write best selling books. But, they definitely can use thought leadership to influence peers within their specific circles, no matter how small. Here are just a few of the advantages of thought leadership:
Sound appealing? It's fairly easy to do. The straight line between where you are and where you want to be is social media. As you put yourself out in the public arena through blog posts, guest posts on others' blogs and any variety of multi-media products, you will gradually extend your sphere of influence and grow your thought leadership.
Yes, it takes work. But, you can do it. If you'd like to learn more, feel free to contact me at info@wesbleed.com.
Follow me on Twitter. Sign up for my free newsletter.
But, any leader can and, frankly, should provide thought leadership. I don't mean they should become household names or write best selling books. But, they definitely can use thought leadership to influence peers within their specific circles, no matter how small. Here are just a few of the advantages of thought leadership:
- Thought leaders help extend their company's brand. News about the thought leader becomes news about the firm.
- Thought leaders help to build their own personal brand. Content they develop helps to shape the expert others see.
- Thought leadership helps to raise credibility. One becomes recognized for his expertise.
- Thought leaders influence their industry or profession, providing ideas and their unique take on events or information that provide real value for others.
Sound appealing? It's fairly easy to do. The straight line between where you are and where you want to be is social media. As you put yourself out in the public arena through blog posts, guest posts on others' blogs and any variety of multi-media products, you will gradually extend your sphere of influence and grow your thought leadership.
Yes, it takes work. But, you can do it. If you'd like to learn more, feel free to contact me at info@wesbleed.com.
Follow me on Twitter. Sign up for my free newsletter.
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