By Rhea Wessel
As companies and individuals pursue thought leadership, we often find ourselves in the in-between spaces, those liminal moments where one identity is shedding its skin and another has yet to fully emerge. This state of flux is beautifully described by Heather Plett in her recent interview with Mary Alice Arthur.
In-between spaces are built into thought leadership.
That’s because thought leaders must always be pursuing what’s new in their niche. Their ideas and their quest for understanding constantly moves them forward.
When you realize your thought leadership is in one of those in-between kinds of places, it can be both a challenge and an opportunity for thought leaders and the companies that support them.
From one paradigm to another
For starters, in between means you need to undergo yet another transformation that demands you let go of old paradigms and embrace new ones. These transitions are not only personal but also professional, influencing how thought leaders articulate their ideas and connect with their audiences.
For instance, a thought leader may start their journey deeply rooted in one industry or topic but find their intellectual curiosity leading them to new areas. This shift can be daunting, creating a sense of uncertainty that is akin to being in a liminal space.
Similarly, a firm that has made a pivot and needs to quickly gain thought leadership in a new niche may be in the uncomfortable "messy middle" longer than it wants to be.
But this is just part of the process. It’s important to recognize this space for what it is: Used thoughtfully, an in-between space can result in something new that is deeply needed and intentional, even if not foreseen.
Embracing Liminality in Thought Leadership
Here are some strategies for navigating transitional phases:
Practice Self-Reflection and Deep Work: Use in-between times for deep work and self-reflection. Embrace spirituality, honesty, and integrity as you reassess your core beliefs and values. This is a period to experiment, take risks, and conquer your fear of falling. Understand that these moments are part of your growth and can lead to profound insights and innovations.
Redefine Your Niche: Just as seasons reflect the cyclical nature of change, use an in-between space to redefine your thought-leadership niche. Your expertise, combined with your passion and unique perspective, forms the sweet spot where your most impactful stories lie.
This redefinition helps crystallize your reason why, supporting the next version of you or your firm’s thought leadership.
Figure 1: Your thought-leadership niche is the intersection of your experience, passion and unique perspective. Your niche is your story sweet spot. During in-between times, focus on redefining your thought-leadership niche.
Build Community and Collaborate: When you’re in the flux between different states, much like the changing tides between the ocean and the shore, this is the perfect time to engage with your community and collaborate with peers.
Share your evolving ideas and seek feedback that can help you refine the new set of ideas and the your new role as a thought leader that is emerging.
Fostering Thought Leadership in Companies While in In-Between Spaces
For companies, supporting thought leaders through these in-between spaces is essential for cultivating a culture of innovation and soulfulness.
Empower and Train Your Experts: Offer workshops and training sessions that help thought leaders articulate their evolving ideas. Equip them with the skills to write and communicate effectively, transforming their deep expertise into accessible, compelling narratives. This not only enhances their visibility but also aligns their personal growth with the company’s goals.
Create Safe Spaces for Ideation: Develop an environment that encourages experimentation and accepts the inherent uncertainties of the liminal spaces. Provide support systems such as mentors or idea coaches who can guide thought leaders through their transitional phases, helping them to frame their ideas and stories in ways that resonate with broader audiences.
Value the Diversity of Thought in your Firm: Embrace the diversity of thought that comes with these transitions. Recognize that each thought leader’s journey is unique and that their evolving perspectives can bring fresh, innovative solutions to the table. Celebrate these differences and integrate them into the company’s narrative, showcasing the dynamic and evolving nature of your expertise.
Navigating the in-between spaces of thought leadership requires a blend of self- awareness, community support, and a willingness to embrace change.
For thought leaders, these transitional phases are opportunities to deepen your expertise, redefine your niche, and connect more authentically with your audience.
For companies, fostering an environment that supports these transitions not only cultivates thought leadership but also infuses the organization with purpose.
When your firm is in an in-between space, avoid the temptation to contract and huddle in fear. Use the time wisely to deepen your understanding and gain clarity on the road ahead.
-Rhea Wessel is a writer and founder of The Institute for Thought Leadership. Her new book on using AI to boost your thought leadership is due out in 2025.
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