As the business landscape evolves, business leaders face new challenges. The rise of remote work, advancements in artificial intelligence, and the emergence of troubling tariffs are all recent examples of changes leaders have been forced to grapple with. New developments introduce new challenges that require new thinking.
Those who can conjure the thoughts needed to navigate new challenges help their companies excel in new environments. As their thoughts make it out into their industry, they also add value there and earn themselves the title of thought leader.
Achieving thought leader status pays dividends to both business leaders and their companies. It boosts credibility and trust among employees, consumers, and other stakeholders, who see the company as one whose leadership effectively addresses its industry’s pressing issues. It also enhances the visibility of the leader and their company. Both benefits open the door to new business growth opportunities.
The following are some steps business leaders should pursue to become sought-after thought leaders.
Build on your strengths to become a master in your field
Developing a thought leader platform will be easier if you build it on your core competencies. Start with an assessment of your strengths. What expertise have you already developed? What unique perspective do you have that will set you apart?
Once you identify your niche, double down on developing your understanding in that area. Explore what others are saying about the topic. Identify the problems you are seeing and think through possible solutions. Remember that building a following requires knowing your audience and what thoughts will be most helpful to them.
It’s also important that your expertise go beyond the theoretical. As you develop new thoughts, test them in your company to see how impactful they are. Thought leaders must be able to show people they have more than good ideas. Their thoughts must be proven to work in the real world.
Always be ready to join the conversation
Growing your reputation as a thought leader requires taking advantage of every opportunity to join the conversation. That includes accepting invitations to weigh in on topics that are peripheral to your area of expertise. While this may require some creativity, it can help you to build your following.
For example, if your niche is healthcare technology, appearing on a podcast focused on AI will be a natural fit. Contributing to reporting on the impacts of US tariffs will not be as natural. However, you could explain how most medical devices are manufactured outside of the US, which means tariffs could increase costs for those who rely on those devices, and then share your thoughts on how the industry can effectively navigate the tariffs.
Limiting your focus will help you to increase your expertise. Limiting your engagement, however, will limit your exposure. Being ready to talk about everything will provide you with more open doors for engagement.
Engaging as often as possible will also position you as a regular contributor to the conversation, which will help to build your reputation. If you start your journey by seeking out every opportunity, opportunities will eventually seek you out.
Establish a community and engage with it
A community of followers can be an invaluable resource for increasing both your expertise and reach. Social media allows you to establish that community and engage with it.
You can start building community by making sure people know how to connect with you. Share your X, LinkedIn, and other relevant social profiles whenever you have the opportunity. And make sure you are active on those channels. Allow those who look you up to experience the type of value that converts them to followers.
Taking conversations to social media can also help you grow as a thought leader. Share with your networks the issues you are wrestling with and solicit their thoughts. Invite them to share their wins and the things holding them back. Engaging with colleagues and offering support allows you to establish yourself as a fellow traveler and a trustworthy guide.
When you experience media wins, don’t hesitate to share them with your community. Provide links and key takeaways. As they see others calling upon you for your expertise, your value increases in their eyes.
Always be genuine when you share
Committing to authenticity will streamline your journey to becoming a sought-after thought leader. People will rarely trust you if you don’t come across as genuine. And they definitely won’t share the information you provide with their networks.
Staying transparent will add to your authenticity. Share with people how your experiences have contributed to your expertise, including both the successes and failures. Your audience can get ideas from AI. They’re looking to you for thoughts that have been tested and shown to be impactful.
To be seen as an authentic thought leader, you’ll also need to stay committed to providing value to your audience. Your goal should be helping people with insights they can apply. Simply promoting your products or services will position you as a salesperson, not a thought leader.
Becoming a sought-after thought leader won’t happen overnight. It requires an investment and a long-term commitment. By building on your strengths, cultivating a community, and always being ready to share something genuine, you’ll slowly but surely build a solid reputation and a dedicated following.
