Written by: Vickie Sullivan | June 23, 2020
The Danger of Being Thought Leaders
Those who know me well know that I don’t surprise easily. Yet this season of crazy times came with a lot of shockers. One of biggest: How thought leaders and do-gooders like Dr. Fauci and Bill Gates became the focus of hate and conspiracy theories involving COVID-19. Nope, I did not see that coming.
A great example is this spring Fast Company article about Gates. Move past the players and social media role. This is the dark side of being thought leaders who stand out and are in the spotlight.
When You Become the Target
Could this happen to you? On a smaller scale, absolutely. Even less-famous thought leaders can have targets on their backs. So, let’s go there. Here are two things you need to know if you are subject to a strike of this nature:
• You are a springboard. It doesn’t matter how much good work you do. The attacks on Gates have little to do with the virus or his activities with it. The opposition used the attention from the virus to address larger issues. It’s a very common tactic among zealots and activists. So, remember, this isn’t about you or even your work. Your popularity is being used as a springboard to give another perspective some traction.
Listen: Two Ways to Deal with Strong Opposition
• Your response owns your brand. Confession: I will tangle with anyone. But I tamp down this temptation. Instead, I ask myself, what role do I want to play here? What do I want to show my supporters and the neutral parties who are watching from the sidelines? Keep in mind that the attackers are not your audience. They are usually outside provocateurs trying to prove themselves. So, don’t play to them. Respond to those watching the interaction. Maintain your role.
Let’s be clear: What Gates and Fauci are experiencing is not sincere opposition. This is vilification to get attention. This dynamic requires a different interpretation and response. Be strategic; proceed with your brand with top of mind.
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