In this episode of Thought Leader Life, Michael and I hang out with thought leader Mark Amtower (@amtower). Backed by 30 years of unparalleled experience in the field of government marketing, Mark calls himself the “Godfather of Government Marketing,” and an award-winning consultant on matters regarding Business-to-Government (B2G), #thoughtleadership, and #LinkedIn. The 30-minute interview focuses on the elements, methodologies, and platforms for thought leadership, but also touches on other interesting subjects, including politics and engaging the federal market.

Calling himself a “marketing fool,” Mark says that as a thought leader, he had put himself to the task of really understanding and studying his niche, started writing and speaking, and then brought all the information and other people’s information through multiple venues. He stressed the importance of feedback, as it helps people grow. In engaging future advocates and advocates, it is key to add legitimate value to any conversation, regardless of the topic. A straightforward tip Mark shares to aspiring thought leaders is to never take cheap shots at people with negative or off-topic comments, especially in public. Mark finds the thought leadership funnel as a very accurate representation of the processes, elements, and methodologies every thought leader needs to understand, but adds that it must be visually represented as a continuum and not an in-out situation. Among the platforms Mark has maximized over the years to sustain his thought leadership includes writing books (“my greatest business card”) and engaging on LinkedIn (“my favorite playground”).

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Here are some “‘aha’ moments” from the episode. See more in the Aha Moments from Thought Leader Life books available in the Aha Amplifier and watch the interview below!

Be content with being visible and adding value. If you do that consistently over time, thought leadership can occur. @amtower

Thought leadership is not just a job, but a lifestyle. It is being open, honest, trustworthy, and making true friends you can share an adventure with. @happyabout

Win apostles, not just advocates. History shows if you have such followers, you can do extraordinary things. @amtower

Don’t take offense at negative feedback. It helps you grow. @amtower

Follow Mark on Twitter at @amtower. Tune into Thought Leader Life every Saturday for more thought-leader goodness!