The importance of becoming a thought leader

Thought leadership is a transferable talent that students can take into varied career fields and personal ventures.

According to Forbes, “Leadership of any kind is a tricky proposition. But thought leadership is another breed entirely. It’s one that’s even more focused on consciousness-raising and mind-changing than the garden variety of leader.”

By influencing and guiding others with your visionary thinking style and eagle-eyed analysis, it’s no surprise that this is a valuable and employable trait to gain while studying at university; often prized as a golden study skill.

Yet, if there are no direct courses available at university that teach you to become an effective thought leader, how can you acquire these skills via other methods of learning?

Have your voice heard and your talent seen. Source: Brooke Cagle/Unsplash

Establish an online presence

Let’s face it, the world is going digital.

From CVs to examinations, accessing essential materials to progress your career is the norm, and making your presence known online is a necessity.

This doesn’t mean that you need to start broadcasting your own vlogs or collecting social media followers; it simply means that you need to be aware of what’s happening in the world and contribute your opinions to matters that mean the most to you.

For instance, if you have a Twitter account, you can contribute opinions to online discussions.

Or, if you want to spark thought leadership through a creative form of expression, you could begin by publishing your artwork or innovations online through Instagram or your university’s website.

If you have any chance to be seen, take it. In the long run, employers will respect your go-getting nature and trust you to be an adaptable and forward-thinking employee.

Student podcasts and debates

Being invited to imprint your opinion during student debates or student radio podcasts is a great way to increase your thought leadership talent.

“Today, thought leaders can get interviewed on podcasts. It allows potential customers and audience members to hear your expertise. You can write content for large authority publications that get millions of readers. You can host online training and conduct joint venture training. You can create content for social media and have it lead back to your platform,” Forbes advises.

By establishing an authoritative voice early in your studies, your professional portfolio is bound to attract attention and your global influence is destined to increase.

So, if you know of any student debates coming up or any podcast feature opportunities, why not give it a try and see where your voice can take you?

. @robpannell3 is one of the best lacrosse players in the world. MVP, record setter, and a true champion on and off the field. Listen as he shares his keys to success during this Positive University Podcast interview. https://t.co/r34cAVcuac pic.twitter.com/ht5dixic6n

— Jon Gordon (@JonGordon11) July 27, 2019

Natural passion

What inspires you the most?

Which global challenges do you deem most important?

Thought leadership thrives on questions and the pursuit of solutions.

To evolve as a driven and dedicated thought leader, you must invest in your passions while at university.

For example, if contemporary politics intellectually stimulate you and you wish to offer unique solutions to public crises, speak out and express your thoughts.

By making a stand and striking out as a leader, you’ll feel more confident in your future endeavours and comfortable to validate your opinions.

There’s never a right time to refine your thought leadership skills, and there’s always a route at university that will help you to broaden them.

Even if your university doesn’t offer direct tutoring on how to become a thought leader, by directing yourself to places that allow you to become one, you’ve already mastered the first few qualities to achieve that status: initiative, confidence and intuition.

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