Developing Your Thought Leadership – Even If You Don't Feel Like a Leader
In today’s climate, it’s important to think about our careers with an entrepreneurial mindset. Establishing yourself as a thought leader can significantly impact your career growth and influence. However, many of us struggle with seeing ourselves as leaders in our industry.
Here are some ways to propel your thought leadership forward - whether you are a top leader, a high performer, or don’t feel like a leader.
Understanding Thought Leadership
Thought leadership is influencing others with your ideas, insights, and expertise. It's about sharing your unique perspective and contributing to industry discussions.
Do you have opinions, ideas, or insights that can help improve processes and methodologies or change the trajectory of your organization? If so, you have the key aspects necessary to becoming a thought leader. When you care about how things are done and helping to bring about change, then it's time to start looking at how you can contribute in a greater way.
Thought leadership can establish you as an industry leader, opening doors to new opportunities and enhancing your professional credibility.
What Holds Us Back
Many of us don’t consider ourselves thought leaders simply because we lack the title, but thought leadership isn’t about a title—it’s about sharing ideas that resonate with others and having the ability to innovate and create change.
We have become programmed to believe that our authority on a topic is contingent upon having the “right” credentials, title, or visible proof demonstrating our expertise, so we discount our ability to rise as industry experts.
Consider Simon Sinek, who started his journey without a traditional leadership role. His TED Talk on how great leaders inspire action has become a cornerstone in leadership discussions. His story shows that thought leadership is accessible to anyone with a vision and a willingness to share their ideas.
Overcoming Self-Doubt
Self-doubt is a common barrier to embracing thought leadership. Many of us experience imposter syndrome, feeling we aren't knowledgeable or experienced enough to be leaders. Amy Cuddy's TED Talk on body language and confidence provides valuable insights into overcoming these feelings. She emphasizes that "fake it till you make it" can help you build the confidence needed to step into a leadership role.
I’ve seen many people, including clients, overcome self-doubt and thrive. Seeing others succeed despite their insecurities can inspire you to push through your own barriers.
Building Your Thought Leadership
Benefits of Developing Your Thought Leadership
Leveraging Your Influence
Thought leadership isn't just about having good ideas; it's about making those ideas heard and acted upon. Here are some actions you can take:
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Reflection
Developing thought leadership is a journey, not a destination. It involves continuous learning, sharing, and engaging with your community. By adopting a growth mindset, actively engaging with your network, and influencing positive change within your organization, you can establish yourself as a thought leader, regardless of whether you initially see yourself as a leader. Take the first step and watch your influence and impact grow.
Let’s embark on this journey together. You’ve got this!
Jessica Rice is an expert in systemic leadership and personal brand development, dedicating her career to helping professionals find and leverage their authentic selves in the workplace.
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About the Author
Jessica Rice is an ICF-certified executive coach dedicated to helping ambitious leaders authentically rise to thought leadership. With a passion for empowering individuals and fostering innovation, Jessica provides insights and strategies for leaders to thrive in their unique journeys.
With over 15 years of experience in design and engineering, Jessica has become an expert in leadership transformation and growth strategies. She has worked with professionals from leading companies such as PayPal, Airbnb, Roku, Uber, Clearway, Kyndryl, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Booz Allen, and major government agencies.
For more content, follow her on LinkedIn and listen to her podcast, The Hello You Show, on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon, Google and more.
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