Includes bibliographical references and index

Introduction 1 -- Part I Finding Your Breakthrough Idea 15 -- The Big Idea 17 -- Develop Your Expert Niche 33 -- Provide New Research 51 -- Combine Ideas 67 -- Create a Framework 81 -- Part 2 Building a Following Around Your Ideas 99 -- Build Your Network 101 -- Build Your Audience 123 -- Build a Community 149 -- Part 3 Making It Happen 173 -- Putting Thought Leadership Into Practice 175 -- Appendix: Classroom or Book Group Discussion Questions 199 -- Acknowledgments 201 -- Notes 203 -- Index 209

"A guide to becoming a recognized expert in your field Too many people believe that if they keep their heads down and work hard, they will be lauded as experts on the merits of their work. But that's simply not true anymore. To make a name for yourself, you have to capitalize on your unique perspective and knowledge and inspire others to listen and take action. But becoming a "thought leader" is a mysterious and opaque process. Where do the ideas come from, and how do they get noticed? Dorie Clark explains how to identify the ideas that set you apart and promote them successfully. The key is to recognize your own value, cultivate your expertise, and put yourself out there. Featuring vivid examples and drawing on interviews with Seth Godin, Robert Cialdini, and other thought leaders, Clark teaches readers how to develop a big idea, leverage existing affiliations, and build a community of followers. She offers not mere self-promotion, but an opportunity to change the world for the better while giving you the ultimate job insurance"-- Provided by publisher.