I Wonder…
Why does so much thought leadership feel flat right now? Because we’re tired of “pathological certainty.” Instead of trying to serve up answers, maybe it’s time to think more publicly about the questions.
Practice Is More Important Than Polish
People don’t want perfect “content.” They want help making decisions. They want to know what you’re thinking. Don’t get hung up on perfection — that’s not what your audience wants anyway.
Are You There?
Are you there? Make sure your customers know that you are — and tell them what you’re working on, what you’re thinking about, and what conversations you want to keep going.
Context, Context, Context
Every time you send a tweet, write an email, or plan a message, remember: What’s the context of the people you’re trying to reach? Honoring our shared context is the only way to start.
How Will You Use Your Voice?
How can thought leaders use their voices to drive change? Being anti-racist means taking risks. If you really want to use your voice to create change, you have to start taking risks and speaking boldly.
Fits and Starts
I used to treasure the “margins” in my day. I carved out time alone to think and brainstorm. I needed a lot of headspace. That’s not a reality I can achieve during the pandemic, but I’m getting better at finding the space for creative thinking and deep work, even if it’s in fits and starts.
Thinking in Public
Thought leadership is about thinking in public. I’m inspired by beacons, curators, and challengers who are thinking in public and showing their work.
Creativity Under Constraints
Not feeling very creative right now? You’re not alone. But sometimes, creative constraints can actually be useful. No budget? No team? No time? How could you find inspiration (not desolation!) from those limits?
Who’s Listening?
Right now, our universes have both contracted and expanded. Who are we listening to? And who needs to hear from us?
Find the Overlap
Working as a marketer during the coronavirus crisis is confusing. I have a lot of questions, and not a lot of answers. I’ve been returning to the fundamentals to keep moving forward and making good decisions.
