Are you an expert in your field?
If you have the expertise, experience and, above all, a desire to share your knowledge.
Then being a thought leader could be right for you.
As a thought leader, you spark discussions and light up new ways of thinking in your domain.
This helps people because they look for ways to grow their businesses and personal lives.
Being a thought leader is fulfilling in its own right. But it also comes with benefits for your business.
Today, people place value on real authority and content that's made without the intent to self-promote.
Successful thought leaders build credibility by creating high-quality, nonpromotional content. Such content wins people over and creates a stronger brand.
Platforms to promote your thought leadership online
To become a thought leader, you need to create an online presence using insightful content. Here are different platforms that will help you build your reputation as a thought leader online.
1. Blogs
Your business blog is a logical place to start building your reputation as a thought leader. Leverage your blog by producing data-rich posts that provoke discussions about your domain and the future.
2. Medium
Medium.com has an active and enthusiastic readership base. Reach out to a broad audience by posting a “story” on Medium. Create inspiring content, and add tags to help your audience find your work.
3. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the largest online community for professionals. You can write an article and share it with your audience. LinkedIn also features posts in its “Pulse” platform, reaching several thousands of readers. You can also join groups and start discussions by sharing helpful posts.
4. Podcasts
Written content is not the only way to build thought leadership. People often listen to podcasts as they drive or work. Creating podcasts serves people who prefer audible content. You're leveraging another platform and format to share your knowledge.
5. Events
Business and networking events bring professionals together. You can use this as an opportunity to speak and develop your presence as an expert. You may also find opportunities for collaborative writing.
6. Research-Based Articles
Use research and data to create articles that have evidence-based insights and conclusions. You'll also get feedback from your peers, adding validity to your content.
7. Newsletters
Producing a newsletter and creating an email list is a powerful way to build your reputation as a thought leader. You'll become accountable as your readers expect regular content.
Read Email marketing tips
8. Guest Posts
Guest posting on other platforms that already have an audience makes good use of your content. You can find publications related to your domain or work with complementary blogs to reach a wider audience.
9. Your Community
Create membership sites like a forum or discussion board for the exclusive discussion of a topic. By building a hub and adding useful content, you'll build a community and establish your reputation as a thought leader in your field.
Ways to promote your thought leadership online
Becoming a thought leader takes hard work and time. It won't happen overnight, but you can give it some momentum in the following ways:
(a) Feature your business data and case studies.
Share actual customer stories, and use real business data. Don't celebrate only success stories, but share the lessons you’ve learned from mistakes made as well. Your audience will relate to you and be more likely to engage with you.
(b) Post consistently.
It's doubtful that you'll establish yourself as a thought leader without a significant amount of content. Create a content plan, and dedicate yourself to producing an article at least once a week or more often.
(c) Let the content speak for itself.
This means that you should remove self-promotion from the equation. Create content that's purely informative, innovative and helpful. It should stand on its own, inspiring your audience to learn more about you.
(d)Stay updated and educated.
Part of what defines thought leadership is that it's bold and new. Update yourself -- consider taking a course to stay on top of advances in your subject. You want to be the source of exciting ideas in your field, and this happens when you're aware of the latest developments going on.
SUM UP
Becoming a thought leader contributes to your business's branding. When you focus on cutting-edge information that shapes people's thinking in your domain, you're creating value. You also stand out, driving your business's success.
Grow by becoming a thought leader, and contribute to your business community too.
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