Are You a Thought Leader? A 10-point Checklist

The term Thought Leader is often used to describe companies that are putting out cutting-edge products and services. When those companies reach certain milestones, they’re called Market Leaders. But from Calysto’s viewpoint, Thought Leaders are people, not companies. Thought Leaders have forward-looking, actionable ideas that can be replicated to drive positive results across their business. Through their actions, Thought Leaders earn credibility and respect among their vast network of followers.

So, are you a Thought Leader, or do you have one or more in your company? Here’s a 10-point checklist you can use to determine who has Thought Leadership characteristics, and who doesn’t. Thought Leaders:

1. Are articulate and can speak with authority, passion and creativity about their ideas. They are especially adept at discussing topics off the cuff because they know their subject matter so well.
2. Are passionate about their ideas and can skillfully rebut detractors or opposing views.
3. Are good listeners. They listen closely to both supporters and detractors and can easily incorporate good points (pro and con) into their discussions
4. Have original thought. Thought Leaders are constantly wondering “What if…? How can I solve this problem? How can I make this particular thing better?” They are also willing to dismiss their own ideas if they can’t back them with logical thinking.
5. Have a clear vision about the way things need to be and have the ability to look well into the future with clarity. They know who to task with execution to put those ideas into action, and from there, drive results.
6. Are not afraid of being  While some of the topics they are passionate about seem controversial, Thought Leaders don’t naturally seek out controversy.
7. Command attention. People naturally gravitate to Thought Leaders because they have the ability to present their ideas at multiple levels. They are naturally able to break down ideas into their most common tenets and put them back together appropriately for the right audience.
8. Make every word count. Whether they are speaking to a small group or in front of a large audience, Thought Leaders use their words wisely. They typically will not “over talk” a subject—they know that every word has purpose.
9. Continuously cultivate their follower base. They know how to make connections with the right people and speak to those people frequently, individually or as a group.
10. Work with an excellent marketing communications team to help them amplify their natural abilities. The team can find unique ways to help Thought Leaders hone their messages and deliver coverage that makes them sought after for interviews, keynote addresses, contributed columns, and more.

Want to learn more about how to cultivate Thought Leadership? Download Calysto’s white paper or contact us.