Best Strategy To Be A Thought Leader

A route marketer needs this more than ever because the clients are demanding it.

In the wild and sometimes stressful world of route marketing, establishing oneself as a thought leader has become a crucial element for professional success. A thought leader is someone who not only possesses deep expertise in their field but also actively contributes to shaping industry trends and inspiring others. This blog article explores the strategies and key steps you can take to become a thought leader in route marketing, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, communication, and community engagement.

To be a thought leader in route marketing, you must possess a comprehensive understanding of the industry. (I’m not talking just about YOUR industry – the one you’re employed in). I want you to be knowledgeable about THEIR industry. The industries of the prospects and clients you intend to do business with!

Stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies by reading industry publications, attending conferences, and participating in relevant webinars. Invest time in continuous learning to ensure you have a solid foundation upon which to build your thought leadership. Subscribe to publications that are related to and of interest to your client base. For example: if you are marketing to Plumbers, read magazines related to plumbing, contracting, building, etc.

Content creation is a powerful tool for establishing thought leadership. Share your insights, experiences, and expertise through various mediums such as blogs, articles, whitepapers, podcasts, and social media. Develop a content strategy that aligns with your unique perspective and provides value to your audience. Regularly publishing high-quality content not only highlights your expertise but also positions you as a go-to source for industry knowledge.

Social media platforms serve as a gateway to a global audience. Too many owners and marketers spend way too much time making the social media posts too salesy. JUST STOP DOING THIS – IT HURTS YOUR CREDIBILITY! Engage with your audience on platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and industry-specific forums. Share your thoughts, comment on relevant discussions, and connect with other professionals in your field. Be cautious about commenting on a Facebook industry group because so many are just trying to ‘bait’ you and they want to sell you something. Consistent and meaningful interactions on social media can help you build a strong online presence and amplify your influence as a thought leader. As I write this blog article, I got an email from LinkedIn telling me that I had 279 views this past week of the articles I’ve posted there.

Thought leaders often have a recognizable personal brand. Define your unique voice, style, and perspective to distinguish yourself from others in the field. Consistency in your messaging and visual identity across various platforms contributes to a strong and memorable personal brand, making it easier for others to identify and follow your thought leadership journey.

Actively seek opportunities to speak at industry conferences, webinars, local networking events, even places like the Chamber of Commerce. Public speaking not only allows you to share your expertise with a live audience but also enhances your credibility and visibility. Over time, speaking engagements can lead to invitations to participate in panel discussions, further establishing you as an authority in your field of expertise.

Thought leadership is not achieved in isolation. Collaborate with other professionals in your industry, both within and outside route marketing. Participate in collaborative projects, contribute to joint publications, and engage in cross-disciplinary discussions. Networking provides exposure to different perspectives and can broaden your influence beyond your immediate field.

Encourage meaningful conversations within the networking community. Pose thought-provoking questions, share your opinions, and actively participate in discussions on relevant topics. Creating a space for thoughtful discourse not only establishes you as a leader but also contributes to the growth of that industry as a whole.

Becoming a thought leader in route marketing is a many-sided voyage that requires a commitment to continuous learning, effective communication, and community engagement. Deepen your knowledge by creating valuable content. Strive to leverage social media and establish a personal brand.

Be willing to be involved in public speaking and collaborating with others to create meaningful discussions. The goal is to carve out a space for yourself as a respected and influential thought leader in the ever-evolving landscape of a route marketer. Embrace the challenges, stay true to your vision, and inspire others to join you on the path to innovation and excellence in the field.

By Dick Wagner, Co-Founder The CREST Network, LLC

Nationally recognized coach, consultant, trainer, and speaker

Creator of the renowned PREP™ pre-disaster program

Owner of AskDickWagner.com BLOG