We are fortunate in our work with hospitals and medical practices to know many leaders, thought leaders and influential thought leaders among the ranks of professionals. More than a few in this group are good clients. And, I’m pleased to say, many also good friends.
It might be surprising to know that exercising thought leadership skills is an important dynamic of marketing, reputation management and business development.
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Thus, it’s not surprising to find that the most successful medical practices have thought leaders at the helm. These individuals are respected by their professional colleagues and sought-after by prospective patients. Growth, achievement and success in the business of healthcare tend to follow.
Having a strong public presence in thought leadership is increasingly important to doctors as competition intensifies and the need for distinction and differentiation is greater than ever.
It’s common for doctors to be recognized for their expertise within the (relatively closed) ranks of fellow doctors and professional peers. But creating and extending a public persona and presence is equally important in a marketing and business development sense.
Fortunately, doctors have a head start: A thought leader is an individual or firm that is recognized as an authority in a specialized field, whose expertise is shared, sought after, and often rewarded.
Among the definitions, many agree that part of what thought leadership is about is: The key strategy is to be different from competitors. Being different is grounded in providing customers with unique value that they cannot get from any other competitor. [Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management.]
Distinguishing qualities of though leaders…
Effective thought leadership is a learned and practiced skill. The qualities that distinguish influential thought leaders include:
- Intelligence, expertise and credibility
- Observant, curious and passionate about their field
- Pursue compelling ideas and innovative perspectives
- Contribute intellectual value and insight
- Frequently share ideas and engage audiences
Most definitions agree that, among these characteristics, one of most important ingredients involves “sharing” ideas and information. Without a platform of interaction, there is no leadership element. This is how thoughts reach and engage the audience.
Methods of “distribution” can include speeches, public presentations, published articles and the like. But the Internet and social media are the delivery systems that can quickly command and influence a large and interested audience.
It is important to note, however, that “thought leader” is an earned as recognition by others, and not a self-anointed title. It does, however, strongly differentiate you from the competition. And being a thought leader attracts a relevant audience, enhances reputation, and builds a trusted bridge of engagement.