Building loyal brand advocates is a critical tenet of your marketing efforts. This is possible with the right strategy in place, which works to propel an organization to success. Thought leaders are individuals with the gravitas to articulate their knowledge in a particular industry or field. Whether you are an executive or a leader within your organization, positioning yourself as a thought-leader will command you the respect and authority required to hold that position. Being a thought leader requires commitment, patience, and knowledge of strategic maneuvers, as well as keeping abreast of the most recent innovations and developments in your field. Here is our 6-step guide to inch you closer to the coveted title, allowing you to position yourself as a thought-leader in your respected industry:
1. Pin down your expertise
People value expert opinion when making any decision. But it can be challenging to earn that credibility when the message is not original. Most visionary and famous thought leaders have always been innovative with their insight. One of the most prominent names in the financial sector, Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director of Bajaj Finserv, is a prime example. Bajaj Finserv, under his aegis, is a testament to effective operations and overall positive impact through his futuristic approach and expertise in adopting new technologies. His business acumen, zeal, and expertise in finance have contributed to the company’s rise.
2. Engaging with the community
After you have narrowed down your area of expertise, work on creating a strong message. Taking time off from business and giving time to social agendas is another aspect that will help you become a good thought leader. This would help you create a strong link with the general public and impact your audience greatly. One way you could do that is by participating in charity events and social work. Even though you won’t be able to see the results immediately, they will pay off later. Creating strong goodwill for your business will be very beneficial in the long term. One of the boldest visionaries, Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons, is a leading name in global thought leadership. Through his philanthropy, he has helped underprivileged people from every sector of India. His social work has also created differences at the grassroots level.
3. Providing advice
The best way to educate your audience is by sharing your knowledge. Today’s fast-paced and digital world makes it simple to make your voice heard through online platforms, articles, and books. Not only will it aid you in elucidating concepts, but it will also help you establish yourself as a thought leader. You can begin with blogs even if you want to start with self-publication. Many Indian business entrepreneurs turn into thought leaders and publish their findings. One of the most prominent thought leaders, Sudha Murthy, Chairperson of Infosys, has written many books which can inspire millions of people in India.
4. Investing time
By working alone, no one can achieve great success. As a result, in order to establish yourself as a successful thought leader, you must forge alliances and devote effort to growing an audience of devoted followers. Collaboration and networking with like-minded people and organizations can help you develop your uniqueness, ultimately leading to your success and the growth of the business. Bear in mind that no one becomes a thought leader overnight. It is like chess, where every move you take impacts your leadership skills. Thus, it is important to have other well-connected and influential people by your side who can become your strength and reduce business risks. One of the famous financial personalities, Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director of Bajaj Finserv and President of CII, is a prime example. He skillfully combined technology and the conventional technique to achieve exceptional performance and transformation.
5. Focus on media relations
After you’ve networked, shift your focus to media relations. Personal branding is an essential foundation block when it comes to gaining the trust of your audience. Establishing meaningful media relationships in reputed publications is the best way to build your brand and credibility. A strong PR team will help establish the desired reputation for yourself and efficiently communicate your core values to your target audience. Visionary thought leaders around the world have robust media relations – and the impact of this exercise cannot be undermined.
6. Listen to others’ advice
The last and most crucial stage is to value and pay attention to suggestions. Thought leaders are not born with knowledge and expertise. It is something that is learned. Being a successful thought leader requires you to maintain humility and pay attention to the wise counsel of others. Your understanding will grow as a result of learning from those with similar expertise as you, and you’ll be able to examine situations from new angles. A sharp thought leader will not only understand but also cherish the experience of their peers. One of the most famous corporate leaders, Adi Godrej, Chairman of Godrej Group, has often spoken about this phenomenon. In his interviews, he talks about how he got the best advice from his mother. In his early years, she taught him how to make wise financial decisions, and he attributes the importance of those lessons to his ability to uphold the Group’s heritage.
Position yourself as a thought leader.
As a thought leader, you must be patient and diligent in attaining your desired reputation. With perseverance, you can accomplish this goal. Being a thought leader is an insurance policy for your brand, for which trust is a crucial precondition. Establishing yourself as a thought leader is not a mere walk in the park. It involves hard work, patience, perseverance, innovation, and a little luck. You can’t just declare yourself an expert and expect people to follow you. Thought leadership is an ongoing process. Once you’ve established yourself as an expert of the experts, stay on top by continually improving yourself and your brand.
