Written by: Vickie Sullivan | December 10, 2020
How to Be a Thought Leader Superstar: Two Must-Haves
Many of us dream about breaking that invisible barrier between being a successful thought leader and being a superstar. Yes, momentum is a big factor. But what sparks the trajectory and keeps the momentum going? This Fast Company piece about Scott Galloway, entrepreneur and e-commerce pioneer, is not only a fascinating read, but it also has on-the-ground lessons for us aspiring to be a superstar.
From a message strategy standpoint, here are two must-haves that will help you achieve that status:
• A signature style that can go anywhere. Key quote from the article: “In place of his typical material—rapid-fire compilations of data on business trends, paired with no-holds-barred analysis—he focused on the topic of happiness … despite the softie subject matter, the speech was classic Galloway.” Your next best step: Can your persona transcend your content?
Listen: How to Go from Articulate Thought Leader to Cool Persona
• Be the killer alternative. The Fast Company article also describes Galloway’s tribe. Key quote: “The knowledge workers who dream of innovation economy careers and find relief from corporate-speak in business straight talk that borders on the profane.” Pay attention to that “find relief” part, and ask yourself: “Am I the source people seek to get what they don’t have?” This is really about how you fit in your market.
A lot of success stories look like someone just burst onto the scene. The reality, however, is their persona and the above strategic must-haves provided momentum and launched them there. That is the difference between being a thought leader who is good at what they do and being a superstar.
And yes, you can pull that off.
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