What criteria are necessary to be deemed a thought leader in your industry? The answers may vary; however, most people can agree it takes a complex series of experiences—not just successes, but also the kind of setbacks that make you rethink, redesign and restart an endeavor you believe in.
Once you master your craft, your successes will eventually speak for themselves. This process is how
thought leaders are born. But thought leaders cannot rely solely on word-of-mouth endorsements. Here are 10 tips to help develop your personal brand and become a top-notch thought leader.
1. Define and Refine Your Area of Expertise
This step might seem a little obvious, but most people have a wide range of interests and a vast knowledge base. Being a thought leader requires a narrowed focus in a specific area. You will be best served to whittle down your options to a precise area of expertise. There is some contention regarding whether or not your subject area needs to be distinctive and not over-addressed. Here’s one way to look at this issue—even a popular industry has room for an authentic expert who brings knowledge to the table. If you are indeed an innovator in your field, people will listen.
By Scott Bartnick
