Whenever someone reaches out to me on Linkedin, more often than not they refer to themselves as a visionary. “Really?” I want to say. “And just exactly what is it that makes you think that you’re a visionary. What are your ideas, your innovations? What have you written? Show me.” The response is always the same. Silence.
But not for you. Because instead of silence, you now have your book, and with it the credibility of a Thought Leader.
Thought Leader is a credential that few have earned but nearly everyone desires. It immediately establishes you as the Voice of Authority and the go-to person in your profession. As a Thought Leader, you’re no longer just another member of the crowd. Instead, you’re a sought-after expert worthy of trust and respect.
A Thought Leader is recognized as an authority in their field, an individual with innovative ideas and a compelling vision for the future. They‘re not merely experts in their respective domains but also influencers who shape industry trends, challenge the conventional wisdom, and inspire others to think differently. Their influence extends beyond their immediate sphere, resonating across a variety of disciplines and industries.
Thought Leaders are catalysts for change with an unwavering commitment to excellence. They are the architects of tomorrow, shaping the future for generations to come.
Thought leadership leads to exposure for your ideas both inside and outside your company – particularly with journalists, analysts, event organizers and conference hosts. It gives you access to people who can help you make things happen – leaders in your organization or community; innovators in your profession or industry.
From Unknown to Bestseller
Jim Collins is one of the best-known business consultants. But it wasn’t always so. During the early part of his career, Collins was a respected but relatively unknown academic on the faculty at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business. That changed when he published the bestseller Built to Last. The book is a fact-based inquiry into what makes some companies endure over time while their competitors falter. Over time, the book became a bestseller enabling Collins to start his own consulting firm and management lab where he teaches executives across a range of industries.
Dr. Michael Hammer enjoyed a similar success when he published Reengineering the Corporation. The book sold more than 2 million copies and was on the New York Times bestseller list for over a year. Before his book, Hammer was a professor of engineering at MIT. After the book, he became one of the most sought-after speakers and consultants in the business world.
That’s the power of publishing a book. Prior to publication, you’re just another consultant or professional looking for a client. And after publication? You’re suddenly a rock star with the clients chasing you.
The stories of Jim Collins and Michael Hammer are inspiring. What most people don’t realize is that for years they were the exception. Back when they were first-time authors, there were few opportunities to self-publish their books. Instead, they had to sign up with a traditional publisher and hope for something to happen. Fortunately, they beat the odds and their books became successful.
Today all of that has changed. Because today, self-publishing has become a path to success available to everyone.
John Rovito
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