Here's how you can become a sought-after speaker in your industry using thought leadership.

Improving my public speaking skills is an ongoing journey for me, and I've set a goal to enhance these skills over the next 12-18 months. This involves not only improving my command of English but also managing the stress and anxiety associated with public speaking and thought leadership. One valuable tip I'd like to share, especially for those who speak English as a second language, is to speak slowly to ensure your thoughts flow smoothly. Many of us tend to speak faster in our native language, which can lead to stumbling when speaking English. While stepping out of my comfort zone is challenging and stressful, celebrating small victories along the way boosts my confidence and sense of progress.

For some of us, it's difficult to say we're an expert. It might seem arrogant or self-satisfied. And yet, we all have specific knowledge and we all bring something unique to the table-- and that can be of service to other people. So, right now, sit down with a pen and paper and make a list of things you know. No editing. No crossing off or changing words. Just write, item after item. When you feel like there's nothing more, look at one of the items and see if you can break it down into more specific topics. Keep doing that, and you'll soon convince yourself that yes, indeed, you are an expert. Now the question-- who can use this knowledge? That is your audience.

Step 1: Define your POV (Point of View) Understanding our gifts, skills, interests and abilities is a journey of self-discovery that should be done annually, as our capabilities and interests evolve over time. Step 2: Of the list compiled above, determine which area (or areas) will be your focus. Some suggest focusing in one niche rather than being too broad. This will help define you, and define your audience. Step 3: Create a positioning statement (no more than three sentences) that clearly defines your brand and mission. The statement should describe who you are, what knowledge, service or product you are offering, who you are trying to help (your audience) and how you will help them.

Quite often, people make the mistake of trying to know-it-all. I suppose their thinking is that if they know something about everything, then they will open up more avenues for public speaking. That has not been my experience in trying to find speakers for webinars and events. Usually, a team or Board will want someone that has a specialty in a particular niche. Malcolm Gladwell tells us that it takes 10K hours of doing something repeatedly to call yourself an expert in something. Find your passion and then find your sub-passion, and go for it with zest to share with this world! Thank you!

Consistently producing high-quality content demonstrates your expertise and helps you build a loyal audience. Additionally, contributing to collaborative articles on LinkedIn can help you earn Top Voice badges, further enhancing your credibility and visibility in the field.

It's tempting to write a lot of things to show off how smart I am or how much knowledge I have, but it's not really useful to anyone (other than my ego!). You should always start from the audience's point of view. This means first defining your audience, really thinking about what they need, and only then creating articles, white papers, infographics, etc.

Even if you are an Introvert, learn to engage, through writing and presenting, with people within the public speaking arena, so you can share your great knowledge with this world. Some Introverts choose an extroverted job because they want to receive the energy that others provide. Extroversion and Introversion is all about energy. Neither is good or bad; it's about preference. Whether you are an extrovert, introvert, or ambivert, enjoy engaging, presenting, and sharing what you know with the world. Have fun! Thank you!

I have found that my best networking "technique" is shining the spotlight on other people. Online, that means taking the time to like or comment on other people's posts on LinkedIn (the relevant social media for my field). Offline, that means introducing people to one another when I believe that one person has knowledge that will help the other person. I talk to a lot of people, I ask a lot of questions-- and I listen. You learn a lot that way.

Today, it is impossible to be an expert of anything if you operate in a vacuum. The world is moving and evolving so rapidly (almost daily) so running towards knowledge is the key to power. Here are a few steps to incorporate continuous learning into your day... 1. Create a list of 10 people in your area of expertise to learn from, engage with and follow. 2. List 10 books (old and new) that will make you more informed about your area of expertise. 3. Select virtual/live conferences to attend where people of similar expertise gather to share insights and to network. 4. Post content and ask for feedback. Your audience will help you know what's happening beyond your own desk, if you have them engage with your content.

Do not go for perfection. If you wait until you deem your skills as perfect, the day may never come. Don't wait. Come to the realization that there is beauty in imperfection. If you make a mistake, so what? You learn better for the next time. You have the desire to speak to diverse audiences, and so you should! Just go for it! Don't let the sound of your voice or look of your body stop you from achieving your speaking goals. Diversity is all around us. Embrace it, and yours too! Thank you!

Keep in mind that your best opportunities aren't necessarily the most obvious ones. I work for a Chinese trade show which is in the same field as an American show, so some people might consider them competitors. Each year, the US show has a conference on international markets-- and I've got great info on the Chinese market, so I offered to share it with them. The end result? I gave a presentation in front of 500+ highly qualified industry professionals. Then, two years later, when the American show had a last-minute problem with one of their speakers, they called me and asked if I could come again.