Part 1. TIRED OF SINGING THE BLUES?

The traditional “soap box” on steroids, social media now broadcasts the voice of thought leaders in a new and electrifying way.

Each social medium, whether it be a micro/blog, web-cast or networked article, is a powerful amplifying system. But combined they are like a turbo charged U2 concert. And just like an open-air gig they will reach audiences who didn’t even buy a ticket.

Thought leaders are innovators. They view the world in which they live differently to others. They articulate these differences, differently; they are not bound by conventional rationality. They assert their insights with a confidence and credibility that attracts and empowers fanatical followers to take further action.

Just as the MTV generation would argue that video actually saved the radio star, social media is the champion of thought leadership in the Twenty-First century; having widened, yet segmented the audience and provided millions with countless opportunities to share their ideas and opinions in a way that has never before been available to them.

Social media is also the ultimate VIP backstage pass – it provides unprecedented access to an arena of thought leaders. You’re just one click away from the likes of Richard Branson, Russel Howcroft and Tim Ferriss, (or at least their social media savvy community managers).

Such superstars along with political leaders, social commentators, celebrities and artists have wised up to leveraging social media to enhance their public profiles and engage directly with their followers to gain greater insights into their markets, constituencies and communities.

So now, it’s your turn to shine.

Although thought leadership is not a new concept, using social media to project your voice further is an innovative process and like music, a precarious balance between science and art.

So here’s 10 Key notes to help you reach the right pitch:

Your thought leadership must be reflective of your personality. What makes you YOU will help differentiate yourself from all the noise that exists out there. Whilst it is important to share others ideas and engage in open discussions, the majority of your information stream should not be regurgitations of others wit or wisdom.

As the thought leader in your industry it is important to be setting, not following trends.

Have you noticed the many incarnations of Madonna over the years? The Queen of Pop defines innovation and has repeatedly re-invented herself without once compromising her own identity. Every reincarnation still captures the essence of her, just as you must manage to find yourself, while evolving with the technologies and social media networks that become available to you.
Consider where your industry may or should be in five, ten years time. Don’t except the status quo and never fear being a contrarian. These are the leaders who have the tenacity to dance to their own tune, to think outside the square, to risk, to ignore the jeers from the crowd on the sidelines and march to the beat of their own drum.

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