Thought leadership: What it is and how you can attain it

I thought I’d use this blog post to provide a clear answer to the question, “What is thought leadership—and how do you become a thought leader?”

What is thought leadership?

Thought leadership means being an expert source and a reliable industry authority. Thought leaders have their finger on the pulse of trending issues and contribute meaningfully to their industry. They are known for delivering consistent and exceptional results and have established a solid reputation as an authority in their field. As a result, they have loyal fans and followers and are sought after for their insights.

Becoming a thought leader doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that involves a steady buildup of credibility. Think of it as a lifetime journey fueled by passion and patience.

The good news is that you don’t have to be the smartest person in the room or an all-time expert to become a thought leader. There are specific steps you can take to get on the thought leadership track.

Let’s examine the six essential steps to becoming a thought leader:

Step 1: Establish your own personal brand