Paul Freedman knows more about water more than almost anyone in Michigan, and maybe the world.
How did Paul get to this level? How does someone become an expert in their field? How does an individual become a thought leader?
In Paul’s case, for over 40 years he has consistently and continuously studied water. Specifically, he is an expert in limnology, which is the study of inland water. Earlier this month, we were honored to have Paul share some of his knowledge with us at CEO/Leaders Connect. If you missed it, you can watch the video here.
After graduating from the University of Michigan he founded, Limnotech, which he has continued running in Ann Arbor for his entire career. He has not only relied on his own knowledge, but he has hired the best and brightest talent in the field. He has recognized problems, has had a vision for what needs to be done in the world, and has not been afraid to step up to be a leader.
In my career as an organizational psychologist, I have had the opportunity to work with many leaders such as Paul, who have become “thought leaders” in a specific field. Furthermore, I have helped others to develop themselves as thought leaders.
Here are 7 steps I believe are important and universal to becoming a thought leader:
- Study a topic thoroughly, and be bold enough to design solutions to problems in your field of expertise.
- Persist in developing your knowledge with a razor like focus until you have achieved mastery of the topic.
- Have a vision of what being a thought leader looks like to you
- Get your message out in as many ways as you can: through articles, books, talks, blogs, webcasts, joining boards, etc.
- Step up to leadership positions. In Paul’s case, he became president of a worldwide organization, the International Water Environment Federation.
- Remember you can’t be a leader alone. Collaborate with others who may be brighter than yourself, and will be willing to push you to expand your area of knowledge.
- Know what you know and own it, but also be well aware of what you don’t know.
If you would like more information about becoming a thought leader, please email me for an appointment.