Let’s be real: starting out as a thought leader can feel overwhelming. You put your heart into creating content, then scroll through LinkedIn and see others with hundreds of likes and comments. Meanwhile, your post gets a handful of views—or maybe just one.
It’s tempting to compare, but here’s the truth: your voice and perspective matter, even if it’s not met with instant validation. Building thought leadership is about creating value, not chasing metrics. The right people will find your content, but you have to keep showing up.
I get it because I’ve been there. I post on LinkedIn all the time. Often, I see people sharing perspectives and expertise on situations I’ve also experienced, and I’ll think, “Hmm, I handled that differently.” So, I’ll add my take, sharing what I’ve learned. But sometimes, those posts don’t receive the interaction I’d hoped for.
It’s frustrating, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have to talk myself off the ledge every now and then. I remind myself: there is value in what I’m writing, even if it doesn’t show in the numbers right away. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
If you’re struggling with comparison or lack of engagement, here are three ways to overcome it:
Shift Your Focus: Instead of focusing on engagement, focus on impact. Ask yourself: “Who am I trying to help with this post?” Even if one person finds your message valuable, that’s a win.
Engage with Others: Building thought leadership is a two-way street. Comment on other people’s posts, join conversations, and connect with like-minded individuals. Your visibility will grow as you show up for others.
Celebrate Progress: Every post, every interaction, every new idea you share is a step forward. Thought leadership isn’t built overnight—it’s the result of consistent effort over time.
Remember: the biggest thought leaders today once started with zero likes and zero followers. Stay patient, stay authentic, and most importantly, keep creating.
What’s been the hardest part for you in building your thought leadership?
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