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Opinion Leaders and Thought Leaders - the same thing?

Aug 4

Written by: Myra Norton
8/4/2008 10:51 AM

As I mentioned last week, I am in the midst of sharing some of the interview questions asked of me by Matt Goddard of R2i. After disclosing my thoughts on the power of opinion leaders, Matt went on to ask:

 

Are Opinion Leaders and Thought Leaders the same thing?


This is a great question – and an important distinction.  Again, there are numerous definitions floating around out there,  but the critical difference is that Thought Leaders don’t necessarily have a personal relationship with the audience who listens to them.  For instance, Robert Reich would be considered a Thought Leader in the area of labor economics, and I might read his writings to inform my knowledge on the subject as part of a decision-making process relative to growing the human capital at Community Analytics.  But, he is not the person I will call or meet with to get advice. I would meet with three of my trusted advisors here in Baltimore about specific issues or decisions that arise as part of developing and implementing a strategic plan to achieve that growth. 

 

What do you think?

 

 

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1 comments so far...

Re: Opinion Leaders and Thought Leaders - the same thing?

Hi Myra,

Your observations are as usual, accurate and interesting.

This question reminds me of a lesson that a great client taught me.

"Leadership, in today's work place, is not a permanent position. It goes to where the client or the situation needs the expertise to be".

All too often, we tend in organizations to institutionalize peoples' contributions. In doing so, we often miss the quiet or inarticulate innovator who can offer great value.

Best,

Sal Rasa
im21 (innovation/measurement 21st.century)

By Sal Rasa on   9/17/2008 3:25 PM

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