A thought leader is an industry expert who shares their experience for the purpose of education, while adding value to their industry in general.
The news seems to indicate that anyone with a significant amount on Twitter or Instagram can be considered an opinion leader; however, it is important to remember what authentic thinking leadership is and how powerful it must be for your brand.
The “thought leader” are terms that are often released so frequently that it is difficult to remember what they really mean. According to Influence & CO, a thought leader is an industry expert who shares their experience for the purpose of education, while adding value to their industry in general.
On the other hand, thought leaders are those people who immerse themselves completely in everything related to their industries; Not only do they understand the internal workings of their businesses, but they also know their audiences and competitors.
According to the source, this requires more than an intelligent commercial, an online ad or a single blog post to achieve. To be a true thought leader in your segment, you must become a reliable and attractive resource for others in your space.
Likewise, the experience must be shared through high quality content, on your own site, publications as well as online points of sale that are within your reach; Another point to consider is the original invited publications, which allow you to arrive, educate and effectively relate with your target audience.
Companies still do not have the human element when it comes to content marketing, so creating credibility through industry thought leadership generates that authentic commitment with the public, this is the product of correct planning and execution.
To understand more about how authentic thinking leadership can be achieved, here are some practices recommended by Influencer & CO:
1. Start writing.
One of the most effective and scalable ways to build thought leadership and connect with your audience through content, which means that it is absolutely critical to start writing.
2. Do not resort excessively to the promotion.
Having said that, it’s not just about writing and publishing promotional content about your company and how attractive it is. Being promotional will only get your audience away; No one wants a product launch, even though 75 percent of marketers still believe this is true. Your role as a collaborator is simple: contribute, provide value and share your ideas.
3. Publish high quality content.
Influence & CO suggests that quality is one of the most important components for creating intellectual leadership content. You cannot settle for low-grade quality because, although it can happen on a couple of occasions, people will not return.
4. be consistent.
You cannot build a readership your audience has no idea who you are. Relationships of trust are not built overnight; develop an editorial calendar and publish content in a consistent manner, you can begin to compile the following.
The true leaders of thought are in it in the long term. They are not trying to make quick money or get into the latest trend, consistency in content, social interactions and publication contributions communicate authenticity.
5. Go to social networks and join online groups.
Although it may seem obvious, but you would be surprised to know how many people leave their profiles incomplete or leave them altogether. Your online presence matters, so make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and your Twitter account does not show an egg where your profile picture should be.
Committing with followers can make a big difference, but you should also work to grow the number of followers as well as your online community.
6. Remember that the best content comes from you, the expert.
This is one of the keys to developing thought leadership as a strategy driven by the ROI for your company in the long term. Humanizing the brand does not mean anything without your employees, when you have key personnel who build with non-promotional and high-quality content, it will display the faces behind the signature that people can trust.
Although it is not easy, the dedication to become a thought leader is a fundamental attribute to humanize a company and create authentic long-term relationships. Starting the conversation, sharing your ideas as well as communicating to make connections, will generate real value, as well as help shape your industry.
