What do you do if your thought leadership presence in the industry needs a boost through networking?

There is a push & a pull factor. One way is to actively seek through participation in industry forums, seminars etc. Other way that people themselves come to you drawn by the USP & insight you generate. Both the approaches help. Need to strike the right balance.

In the process of reassessing your objectives, it's crucial to conduct a self-assessment of your strengths, weaknesses, and unique insights. Understanding your unique value proposition can help you better position yourself within your network.

To further diversify your network and enhance your thought leadership, consider holding a Masterclass in a new setting. This could be at an industry conference, a local community center, or even via an online platform. By doing so, you not only extend your reach to different audiences but also share your expertise in a deeper, more engaging format. This can introduce you to fresh perspectives and create opportunities to demonstrate your thought leadership to a broader audience, thereby strengthening your industry influence.

One of the movies I love is the movie Fight Club, where the main character starts going to all of these twelve step groups. He eventually becomes addicted to going to groups, and finds power in the connections that happen, even though he is not suffering from over 90% of the things the others are. So step out of your comfort zone and explore a new group!

Engage by adding value and insights that are filtered through your unique point of view. Don't add regurgitated content just to be active.

Engage with your unique and relevant views to gain traction . The frequency of engagement also matters to maximize the eyes that fall on you and your point of view. This is will enable more like minded people to connect with you.

Develop a strategy for your content. Consider what comes to mind for your audience when they think of you and your expertise. Stay focused on that topic for a prolonged period. Even if you're tempted to explore other subjects, maintain your focus until your thought leader brand is well established. For example, Brene Brown is synonymous with vulnerability. This is because all her prominent work revolves around this topic. While she may have other interests, she intentionally keeps the conversation focused on vulnerability.

Avoid automating your interactions - generic, mass messages can come off as impersonal and disingenuous. When reaching out, reference specific details or shared experiences to demonstrate your genuine interest in building a meaningful connection.