I get asked about “thought leadership” a lot, specifically, how does it help with your business or career?
I get it. I wondered the same thing when I started my journey until I came across a concept created by the Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman called, surprise, the Feynman Technique.
The technique involves four key steps:
- Choose your categories
- Explain it like they’re five
- Identify and fill gaps
- Simplify and refine
Let’s break down each of the four steps.
1 Choose Your Categories
Picking your categories is like choosing your bar’s signature drinks. Focus on what makes your expertise special – the kind of knowledge that turns heads and raises eyebrows. The categories need to be:
- Relevant to your expertise
- Applicable to your audience
Choosing categories ensures focus so your content will be directed and meaningful to your audience.
Action to Take
Pick 3-6 core categories you want to become known for; they can be anything from digital marketing strategies to handmade jewelry.
Apply to Content Creation
List various topics you can talk about or want to learn more about for each category.
2 Explain it Like They’re Five
Imagine breaking down complex concepts as if you were explaining them to a five-year-old. No, it’s not about dumbing it down; it’s about making it as clear as a well-aged Scotch.
Like a good distillation, this step breaks down complex ideas into their most basic elements. The challenge lies in simplification without losing the essence (which is what I help my clients do, BTW).
Action to Take
Write down or record yourself explaining your category/topics as if teaching it to a 5-year-old. Use simple language and analogies.
Apply to Content and Product Creation
Use your simplified explanations as a foundation for blog posts, videos, and social media content. Additionally, apply it to improve your products or services.
The first two steps of the Feynman Technique are critical for becoming recognized as an expert in your area, whether you're a career professional or a founder.
I spend a lot of time with clients in both areas within The Brand Messaging System™.
A common misunderstanding with messaging is it's a one-and-done thing, but the truth is your message connects everything from your business to your brand; it's what allows you to articulate clearly who you are and what you do so everyone understands.
So, if you're serious about getting recognized for your expertise and taking your brand to the next level in the coming months, I recommend applying for The Brand Messaging System™ ASAP. Here's the link to apply.
3 Identify and Fill Gaps
Explaining a complex topic to someone like they're five is revealing. It will help you spot gaps in your knowledge, which is like realizing you’re out of vermouth mid-mix.
As a thought leader, you need to actively seek out information to refine your understanding and ensure your grasp of your categories/topics, which is what sets you apart from the novices.
Action to Take
When explaining a topic, notice where you pause, where you're not clear, or where you use complex jargon. These pauses are knowledge gaps; fill in these gaps, then try explaining again.
Apply to Networking and Collaboration
Talk about your categories/topics whenever possible because your ability to explain complex ideas simply will build your reputation as an expert and thought leader.
4 Simplify and Refine
The ability to convey complex ideas in a straightforward manner is a crucial skill for any expert, like fine-tuning a cocktail recipe. You want it smooth, leaving your audience wanting more.
Your goal is to become concise and clear while ensuring your explanations are easy to grasp and accessible to others without sacrificing accuracy.
Action to Take
Refine your explanation. Make it more concise and clear. Refining your explanations will solidify your understanding and become a valuable tool for teaching your audience.
Apply to Teaching and Mentoring
Host workshops or mentoring sessions. Teaching others reinforces your knowledge and establishes your authority in your niche.
Last Call: Key Takeaways
So there you have it, the Feynman Technique – your recipe for thought leadership greatness. Grab these steps, shake up your knowledge, and pour out some wisdom that’s uniquely yours.
1. Choose your categories
2. Explain it like they're five
3. Identify and fill gaps
4. Simplify and Refine
Start with a concept, break it down, fill the gaps, and share it with the world.