Sui Generis Thought Leadership

Think. Write. Lead. - Issue #79

Walking the streets of Barcelona is like being bathed in sui generis architecture.

(BTW, sui generis is Latin for “of its own kind” —in other words, unique).

All because of Gaudi and other exponents of Catalan Modernism, a fun style of architecture not easily found elsewhere (maybe in an Orlando theme park?).

From the funky buildings at Parc Guell…

To the Sagrada Familia…

We saw all sorts of balconies, sculptures, buildings with huge pins all over one side, and Ghotic structures.

Barcelona’s architecture makes this city stand out.

You could say it gives it authenticity.

But behind that authenticity, there’s a business and marketing strategy to make it profitable for the city and entertaining for the tourists.

Guided tours, audio guides, interactive maps, you name it…

It’s a money machine.

Now, let’s apply all this to thought leadership.

You must learn to balance authenticity and strategy in your thought leadership practice.

• Authenticity builds trust and relatability.

• Strategy ensures your message is delivered effectively and to the right audience.

So, how do you maintain authenticity while making strategic decisions? Keep your POV weird (and personal) while choosing wisely how, where, and when to share that POV.

There is a delicate balance between staying true to your POV (authenticity) and promoting your work in a way that resonates with an audience (strategy).

THINK.

Authenticity…

• Am I staying true to my values and beliefs in my content? Are there any topics or approaches that feel inauthentic or forced?

• How does my content reflect my personal journey and experiences?

• Do I practice what I preach?

Strategy…

• What value do I want to provide?

• What platforms align with my voice and my audience's preferences?

• What are their interests, needs, or problems that my content can address?

WRITE.

• Write a few paragraphs about your core values and beliefs—how do they influence your content?

• Write a value statement—what is the unique value you provide through your content?

• Write a paragraph or two in the style of different platforms (like a LinkedIn post, a tweet, or a blog post). This can help you understand which platforms fit your voice and message.

LEAD.

Leaders are great at self-awareness.

And thought leaders excel at content self-awareness.

(I just came up with that and I like it).

So, to be “content self-aware” you must perform an Authenticity Audit.

Periodically, audit your content for authenticity.

Are you walking your talk? Do your actions align with your advice?

If not, make some course corrections.

Lead by example. And write amazing content.