How to Use Social Media to Build Your Personal Brand – Part6

The sixth installment of a ten part series – Tip #6 is revealed…

The traditional “soap box” on steroids, social media now broadcasts the voice of thought leaders in a new and electrifying way.

Each social medium, whether it be a micro/blog, web-cast or networked article, is a powerful amplifying system. But combined they are like a turbo charged U2 concert. And just like an open-air gig they will reach audiences who didn’t even buy a ticket.

Thought leaders are innovators. They view the world in which they live differently to others. They articulate these differences, differently; they are not bound by conventional rationality. They assert their insights with a confidence and credibility that attracts and empowers fanatical followers to take further action.

Just as the MTV generation would argue that video actually saved the radio star, social media is the champion of thought leadership in the Twenty-First century; having widened, yet segmented the audience and provided millions with countless opportunities to share their ideas and opinions in a way that has never before been available to them.

Social media is also the ultimate VIP backstage pass – it provides unprecedented access to an arena of thought leaders. You’re just one click away from the likes of Richard Branson, Russel Howcroft and Tim Ferriss, (or at least their social media savvy community managers).

Such superstars along with political leaders, social commentators, celebrities and artists have wised up to leveraging social media to enhance their public profiles and engage directly with their followers to gain greater insights into their markets, constituencies and communities.

So now, it’s your turn to shine.

Although thought leadership is not a new concept, using social media to project your voice further is an innovative process and like music, a precarious balance between science and art.

So here’s Tip #6 of 10 Key notes to help you reach the right pitch:

Give them what they want. Your audience wants to know what you think. Rather than simply reporting facts you should value-add and share how this information affects you and others. Your unfettered opinions help others to make educated decisions.

How can you help them? What life lessons have you learnt that provide you with a skewed perspective that others could benefit from?

Help solve their problems or empower them to find solutions themselves.

Thought leadership can be summed-up in four words:
Educate. Entertain. Empower and Inspire.

  While “listening” you may have noticed whether your audience joins groups and/or forums and asks questions. These are ideal platforms to respond to queries and demonstrate your experience and understanding of your speciality.

Your knowledge in niche fields gives you your competitive edge. Most industries have become so complicated that only when you specialize and provide value, are you likely to be acknowledged as the best in your field.

Want all 10 parts NOW?! Get all 10 key takeaways by clicking here now!

Written by Natalee-Jewel for ADCORP