What do you do if you want to kickstart your career as an entry-level thought leader?

To kickstart your career as an entry-level thought leader, it’s essential to find your niche where you can offer unique insights and perspectives. Start by identifying the areas in cybersecurity that you’re most passionate about and where you can contribute meaningfully. Build your knowledge base, stay updated with the latest trends, and share your thoughts through blogs, social media, or community forums. Networking with industry professionals and seeking mentorship can also provide valuable guidance. Remember, consistency and authenticity are key to establishing yourself as a thought leader. Begin by adding value to conversations, and your niche will naturally emerge.

If public speaking seems daunting, remember what Mark Twain said: "There are two types of speakers: the nervous and the liars." The accomplished speakers you look up to did not start that way. They were also a bumbling mess at the beginning. Start small. Join your local chambers of commerce. Most allow their members to do short 10-minute presentations to other members. Another idea is joining Toastmasters, which teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. A more informal alternative to Toastmasters is to join local Meetup groups focused on public speaking or communication skills. Whatever you do, just get started and expect to fail. The more you do it, the better you get!

One of the best ways to network is to become a 'connector.' Keep a spreadsheet or online notepad where you jot down people you meet and what they are looking for. Then, connect people who should work or collaborate together. Talking about yourself all the time can come across as self-serving. When you appear to listen to others, take note of their needs, and even meet their needs through connections, you can create an avalanche of goodwill and reciprocation.

A big part of thought leadership is the audacity to entertain an idea that people aren't willing to lend a voice to openly. When I started discussing financial trauma, I initially thought that I came up with the phrase. In my mind financial trauma looked a very specific way & I talked about it the way it looked in my mind with authority backed by my lived experience. I quickly learned that many people had done work to define financial trauma and that definition looks different from mine. Rather than panic I learned about how it was being positioned and added my angle to the conversation. Now I support my view with research, credentials, and formal education cementing me as a thought leader while allowing me the flexibility to learn & grow.

To kickstart your career as an entry-level thought leader, focus on building a strong personal brand through consistent and valuable content creation across relevant platforms. Engage with industry peers, participate in discussions, and seek mentorship to enhance your knowledge and credibility in your chosen field.