Better: Authentic thought leadership without the ick
Christina Wedgwood is challenging the world of thought leadership with her new book Better.
Many know Christina Wedgwood as the Founder of Intelligent Ink, an Auckland-based agency specialising in thought leadership and book coaching. Now, she is taking the work of her organisation to a new level with the release of Better – A more authentic path for the reluctant thought leader.
Aimed at those who “want to influence without the ick”, Better offers a new definition for who has the potential to lead with purpose, what constitutes thought leadership, and how we can work towards better impact in a constantly-changing world.
Thought leadership has become somewhat of a buzzword in recent years. After LinkedIn announced algorithm changes that would increase the quality and effectiveness of unique thought leader content on the site, everyone from solopreneurs to major corporates have turned their attention towards this concept of thought leadership. Many picture thought leaders as charismatic, extroverted speakers, or, as Better describes, the “sage-on-the-stage” archetype.
But this personality type, Christina says, is just one of many in the world of effective thought leaders. “It’s time to do away with boxes. It’s time to broaden out the field. Thought leadership isn’t about how loud you are – but about effectively sharing important ideas, and I truly believe you can do that even as someone who is naturally a bit introverted, or tentative, or reluctant to take attention. It’s time for a new definition of thought leadership, one that embraces our authentic and unique voices. That’s what Better is about.”
Christina’s inspiration was entirely personal. “I am one of those quiet, considered people. And I’ve often wished for a resource that spoke to someone like me, who wants to make a difference but sometimes feels that role is only reserved for a different type of person.”
Better has already captured the attention of leading voices and authors in this space. Matthew Pollard, author of the bestselling The Introvert’s Edge series, has endorsed the book, saying “Better brilliantly highlights the power of authenticity and embracing your natural strength”. Thomas Curran, author of The Perfection Trap has described the read as “a journey of authentic growth and discovery.”
Better’s release will see five Auckland-based leaders from various industries – marketing, professional speaking, and leadership – come together for a panel discussion on July 11.
This marks the second publication from Intelligent Ink Press. The first publication from this new Press was Dr Ellen Joan Ford’s #WorkSchoolHours – A revolution for parents, workplaces and the world in March of this year.
Giveaway
Want a free copy of Better shipped to your doorstep? Answer this question and go in the draw!
What does the term ‘thought leadership’ mean to you?
Email your answers to [email protected] by July 31 and you could receive a free copy of Better. Tc & Cs apply.