"The only irreplaceable capital an organization possesses is the knowledge and ability of its people. The productivity of that capital depends on how effectively people share their competence with those who can use it." —Andrew Carnegie
Thought leadership is the application of new ideas and insights for the benefit of others. It calls for creativity and innovation irrespective of the areas of interest. Joel Kurtzman coined this concept way back in 1994. Gradually the concept has spread to other spheres.
Thought leadership is an extension of opinion leadership. Opinion leadership believes in expressing only opinions. However, thought leadership is beyond expressing one's opinions. It is like reflections where value is added by facts and figures. These leaders share their ideas and encourage others' ideas as well. They are the champion of novel ideas and insights.
An organization can also adopt the concept of thought leadership and be active in furthering ideas and insights for the benefit of all. It is neither top-down nor down-top leadership. Thought leaders are leaders who have knowledge, experience, expertise, and ideas to share with others. They have firm and fixed opinions and ideas about the issues and they openly advocate and share with others. At times they are eccentrics and loners. They may not be good at interpersonal skills and social skills. But they think out of the box. They are different people. They are trailblazers and go by the road less traveled.
These leaders are deeply immersed in their activities and they are thinkers and experts in their domains. They constantly create new things and add value for themselves. They are usually loners and lions and walk alone. They are highly passionate about their work and dreams. Here are some attributes of thought leaders.
Thought leaders know how to impact others. They not only have ideas but also can articulate their ideas. At times they amplify what exists in the right way. These leaders change the people either through speaking writing or both. They stand out from the pack. They are filled with intellectual integrity.
They have a passion for improving the system. They are liberal and generous. They share their knowledge and riches. They believe in bringing out the best among the people. They are intrinsically motivated. They have compassion and humility.
They like to be provoked and challenged by others. They energize themselves by spreading and sharing their knowledge. They are original and analytical thinkers. They are creators of ideas carriers of information and messengers of love, peace, and prosperity.
They see the big picture and are good at conceptual skills.
They are excellent communicators.
They are extroverts and enjoy conversations and learn a lot through discussions and deliberations.
They are learners with strong convictions.
They don’t make decisions under pressure or temptations. They look at the pros and cons and make decisions keeping the interests of others.
They cannot think ill of others as their minds are busy with optimistic thoughts. They are surrounded by positive people who spread positive vibes.
They always look for a better way of doing things. They are unconventional and rebellious temperament.
They scribble their countless thoughts to enlighten and educate others.
They have an urge to help and serve others.
Bloggers who share their knowledge can be called thought leaders. They share their knowledge with the world. They know that knowledge should not stay in one place. When water stays in one place it stinks. Similarly, the thought leaders don't let their knowledge remain with them.
Thought leaders are essential to spreading the message of knowledge from one generation to another. They are the torchbearers and champions of human progress, prosperity, and peace.
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Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D.
Founder of MSR Leadership Consultants, India
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