Nina Van Rompaey, co-founder of My Rising Jungle, helps business owners globally by optimising their online presence through strategic video content, website development, and creative copywriting. She also offers customizable digital products to boost social media impact.
In a world where everyone is trying to stand out, positioning yourself as a thought leader can set you apart. It’s more than sharing your expertise—it’s about building trust, connecting with your audience, and creating opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise come your way. And the best part? Social media makes it easier than ever to do just that. In this article, we’ll dive into why thought leadership matters and how you can use social media to establish yourself as a go-to expert.
Why thought leadership matters
One of the questions clients ask me all the time is, "How do I grow my personal brand and stand out in my industry?" The answer is that thought leadership is one of the most powerful ways to do just that.
So, what’s the secret to becoming a thought leader?
It’s about more than just being an expert. It’s about sharing your knowledge in a way that resonates with others and adds real value. Thought leadership helps people see you as someone they can trust, which is crucial to building long-term relationships and standing out in a crowded space.
First things first, it builds authority. When people see you as a thought leader, they recognize you as an expert in your niche. Whether you're a business coach, creative professional, or consultant, showcasing your insights makes others view you as the go-to person for reliable information.
Next, it builds trust. In a world where people are more skeptical than ever, consistently sharing valuable tips and insights shows you understand your audience’s needs. That trust will turn followers into loyal fans, clients, or customers.
Thought leadership also opens the door to connections. When your content resonates with others, they’re more likely to engage with it, share it, and reach out to collaborate.
Suddenly, you’re part of a larger conversation with potential partners and industry leaders.
Finally, thought leadership strengthens your brand. By consistently offering fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, you’ll stand out from competitors and leave a lasting impression.
How to use social media to build thought leadership
Social media is your best friend for building thought leadership. With billions of people online, it gives you the perfect space to share your ideas, connect with your audience, and grow your brand in real time.
Here's how you can start:
Know your niche
Focus on a specific area of expertise and speak directly to the needs of your audience.
Example: If you’re a business coach specializing in startup strategies, create content addressing new entrepreneurs’ everyday challenges, like funding or marketing on a budget.
Be consistent
Post regularly and ensure your content adds value. The more you share, the more likely people will start seeing you as a trusted resource.
Example: Create a content calendar to plan your posts for the month. For instance, if you're a fitness coach, you could dedicate Mondays to motivational quotes, Wednesdays to workout tips, and Fridays to healthy recipes. This structure helps your audience know what to expect and keeps them returning for more. Plus, it encourages you to stay organized and consistent in your posting habits.
Engage with your audience
Thought leadership is a two-way street. Respond to comments, ask questions, and join relevant conversations.
Example: If someone comments on your post, take the time to respond. You could also ask them a follow-up question to encourage further dialogue.
Collaborate
Partner with others in your field to expand your reach and credibility. Guest posts, webinars, or interviews can help you grow faster.
Example: Reach out to another thought leader in your industry for a joint Instagram live or webinar. Such collaborations introduce you to a new audience and show that other industry leaders respect your expertise. They also foster valuable networking opportunities, build credibility, and generate meaningful discussions that benefit both your followers and theirs.
Be authentic
Share your journey, including its ups and downs. People relate to real stories, not just polished perfection.
Example: Share a personal story about a challenge you faced in your career and how you overcame it. This vulnerability can resonate deeply with your audience and foster a sense of connection.
Leverage video
Use video content to demonstrate your expertise in a personal way. It’s one of the quickest ways to connect with your audience.
Example: Incorporate talking head videos where you speak directly to your audience about industry trends, share insights, or answer common questions.
For instance, as a marketing consultant, you could create short, engaging videos discussing the latest social media algorithms or offering tips on effective ad strategies. These personal videos help humanize your brand, allowing viewers to see your passion and knowledge firsthand, which fosters a deeper connection.
Adapt as you go
Pay attention to what works and adjust your strategy based on feedback and performance.
Example: Use analytics tools to track which types of posts receive the most engagement.
If you notice that your talking head videos discussing marketing strategies are getting significantly more views and comments, consider creating more content in that style.
You could replicate the format or topic, diving deeper into related subjects or offering follow-up videos. This responsiveness to audience preferences boosts engagement and demonstrates that you value their input.
There you have it! Thought leadership is about adding value, staying consistent, and connecting with your audience. By leveraging social media, you can build a brand that not only stands out but also opens doors to exciting new opportunities and grows your business.
What’s the number one step you’ll take today on social media to kickstart your journey as a thought leader?
We can’t wait to see what you come up with and show you some love!
Read more from Nina Van Rompaey
Nina Van Rompaey, Instagram & Business Strategist
Nina Van Rompaey is the co-founder of My Rising Jungle, where she combines her passion for writing, storytelling, and creativity with extensive business experience to help entrepreneurs enhance their online presence. On a mission to demystify content creation and eliminate superficial Instagram strategies, Nina offers strategic video content, website development, and copywriting services. She is determined to simplify online marketing, empowering business owners to show up on social media authentically, connect with their ideal audience, and move their business forward.
