Becoming a respected figure in the business world requires more than just business acumen – it demands authority and influence. Thankfully, there are more ways than ever to get your name out there and establish authority.
- Network, Network, Network
Do you want to know the truth? The best way to build your authority is by expanding your network. The more hands you shake on a consistent basis, the more likely you are to become a respected figure in your industry.
That begs the question: How do you most effectively go about networking?
There’s no singular method for networking; it comes down to a combination of quality and quantity. Ideally, you make networking a lifestyle. This means you interact with and talk to people everywhere you go. Whether it’s at the coffee shop, your child’s Little League games, or at industry events and conferences, you’re constantly having conversations with people.
It’s also important that you develop some regularity by carving out a presence in specific clubs, groups, or organizations. Community organizations (like Rotary Club), industry associations, and local boards are all great places to go for building connections.
- Create and Share Content
In today’s digital world, content is king. If you want to build authority in your niche, you need to constantly be pushing out original content that attracts people to your profiles and websites.
Depending on your industry, you’ll want to choose a specific platform and focus your content creation efforts there. In most cases, this is going to be LinkedIn (since that’s where other professionals are hanging out and networking). However, there’s also a case to be made for YouTube or even Instagram and TikTok.
When you share content, focus on quality first and foremost. It’s much better to push out one high-quality piece of content every two or three days than to post ten times a day without adding any real value.
- Write a Book
Writing a book not only amplifies your authority, it also leaves a lasting impression. When someone introduces you as a published author, it changes everything about the way people perceive you. But here’s a little secret: Writing and publishing a book isn’t nearly as difficult today as it was 10 or 15 years ago.
Today, almost anyone can write a book and self-publish without needing to play the circus games that publishers make you participate in just to earn the right to pitch them a book idea. Not only that, but it’s easy to print a book for just a few dollars in extremely low quantities. This allows you to publish a book with a very lean, low-cost strategy that you can scale as the book gains in popularity.
- Host a Podcast
Podcasting is another one of those mediums that garners a tremendous amount of respect. But even more than that, it gives you an “in” to network and connect with other thought leaders.
People with power, influence, and large audiences are always looking for ways to get in front of more people. When you’re the one with the microphone and platform, you have an excuse to approach people and convince them to have a conversation with you.
In turn, you garner the respect of other people, simply by sharing a microphone with someone else who is highly respected.
- Secure Speaking Gigs
Surveys consistently show that public speaking is one of the greatest fears people have. In fact, 75 percent of people say they have some level of public speaking anxiety. Yet, here’s the thing: Each year, there are thousands of industry events, conferences, podcasts, TV shows, radio interviews, and conferences looking for people to speak. And the people who speak at these events gain serious recognition and visibility.
If you can fight through the fear of public speaking, you get a lifetime pass for instant authority. Not only that, but you can get paid a pretty penny to speak in front of people.
Adding it All Up
In a world brimming with entrepreneurs vying for attention, establishing authority demands consistent effort and dedication. It’s about not just showcasing your skills but also offering value, insights, and solutions that set you apart.
Remember, authenticity is key. Stay true to your values and expertise while being open to learning and evolving.
