3 critical steps for successful collaboration with a thought-leader

How to build mutually beneficial relationships with influencers in your industry

Becoming an industry thought-leader (also called an influencer) takes a lot of time and effort. Thought-leaders are experts in their industries and are able to influence the opinions and decisions of their audience. Not every entrepreneur will be an influencer. But even if you aren’t an industry thought-leader, you can collaborate with one. This is a great opportunity to gain new opportunities and leads for your business and potentially become a thought-leader yourself.

Three important steps for successful collaboration with your industry thought-leaders:

Match your content to the influencer.

Remember that influencers are really busy people. Hundreds of people approach them with business propositions and ideas daily. You need to make sure that your content or project is relevant and valuable for your influencer. Only perfectly matched, high quality content will be worth your influencer’s time.

Build trust with your thought-leader.

Earning people’s trust is not an easy task. Building trust with a person who is popular and in demand is even harder. It may take time to build that connection with an influencer. Don’t rush it; be genuine and open about your collaboration goals.

Make it mutually beneficial.

Your collaboration with a thought-leader should benefit both of you. Become a useful resource for the influencer by providing helpful and interesting information, and in return, you will build credibility and gain a broader audience. Contribute to the influencer’s work, but be honest about your objectives and ability to help.

Working with an industry thought-leader is great chance to reach a target audience and find new opportunities for your business.

Axia Public Relations will take your business to the next level by making sure you’re getting the most out of your PR efforts. Download our guide Maximizing Your Public Relations Investments to market your business for maximum return on investment.

Yulia Dianova is a public relations professional who is skilled in building relationships with target audiences. She provides counsel to organizations that seek PR help to further their growth and reach their goals. Yulia earned a master’s degree in public relations management from University of Maryland University College. She is fluent in Russian and English and is always looking for a new challenge. Yulia has worked for Axia Public Relations since July 2015. Learn more about Yulia Dianova. Connect with Axia on Twitter @axiapr or tell us what you think in the comments below.