Be a Young Thought Leader
Nikita Rai | Sept. 24, 2020, 8:12 a.m.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, Thought Leadership is the practice of developing important new ways of thinking those influence others. In simple words, as the term suggests, it is a combination of thoughts and leadership. If we elaborate on this term, we come to know that Thought Leaders are the ones whose methods of thinking are sought after in their company, in their field of expertise, and the whole industry to which they belong. It is their way of thinking and suggesting methods of change that brings welfare to the company, the consumers, and as a whole to the industry.
Thought Leaders are often regarded as renowned members of their field, and this position doesn’t come only from knowledge but also the right method of application, observance, and experience. But does that mean that you cannot be a thought leader if you are a young entrepreneur or a teenager? Certainly not! You might gain experience gradually but you can rely on your knowledge, observance, and the right method of application to begin with Thought Leadership. Here are a few steps which will help you to start on the road of becoming a thought leader:
1. Find your Expertise: Finding a field in which you excel is one of the key factors if you want to be a Thought Leader. Therefore, even if you know which fields intrigue you, take out some time to explore new fields and different areas in those fields. You never know when you might discover the field or the area about which you think uniquely and passionately. Once you think you have found that field, start researching extensively into it to develop your knowledge. Keep observing various circumstances that have arisen in the past and keep anticipating the future ones.
2. Keep expanding your horizon of knowledge:Once you have good knowledge in your area of expertise, do not just limit yourself there. Always remember that no field is exhaustive. Dwell deeper into it and you will come up with something new. If not, then you will find extensions to your fields or new ways of dealing with problems, suggesting solutions, and adapting to changes.
3. Be authentic: This is an often ignored factor but being authentic might prove to be the game-changer for you. It doesn’t matter whether you are applying Thought Leadership in a fresh startup or an established business but authenticity determines how much you will be liked and trusted in your company, field, and ultimately your industry. Do not try to adopt somebody else’s ideologies. The most you should go for is an inspiration from someone successful but be original when it comes to your thoughts and ways of leading.
4. Be creative and innovative: Be open to new methods. Keep trying new ways of reaching your audience because our eyes are witnessing changes in technology and business every single day. So, stick to the strong base that you have created but keep adding new and relevant methods of expression and application in your way of thinking and leading.
Image from Chateau Global
5. Take your team along:The above four points might sound a bit overwhelming if you are a beginner but you do not have to achieve it all by yourself. Do not be afraid of taking suggestions from your team members. Be collaborative and co-operative. Consider all the ideas on the table and innovate a new one if none suits your purpose. Take feedbacks positively and never stop striving for improvement because a consistent beginning will lead to an admirable leadership.
You just saw a few points that will help you to begin as a Thought Leader. In a nutshell, here’s what you should take away – Do not be afraid of changes, challenges, and failures. Always remember that every successful person, be it an Entrepreneur or a Thought Leader, had begun at some point or the other. Be co-operative and consistent, and with the right amount of diligence, you can bring changes that you want to see in your industry.
Header Image from Randall Reilly
Opening Image from Full Circle Insights
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