I first met Brad Lomenick at Catalyst One Day and at the Off The Blogs event that evening.
Quite obviously a “mover and shaker” the man’s got a humble heart about what God’s doing through him and through the organization in which he serves.
His thoughts today about “Gaining Credibility” we’re a much needed reminder and some succulent mindfood for the day.
I’ve recaptured them here and dropped a few thoughts about it’s application, as I’ve seen it, through blogs and the online space:
1. Be Self Aware
Brad’s Thoughts:
First, you have to have an accurate understanding of who you are and where you are in life. A very clear and realistic picture of your self identity and current reality. If you are 24, you have to understand that life experiences and job experience probably aren’t something you can hang your hat on.
My Thoughts:
As I’ve progressed through the many years of blogging (since 2001) I’ve changed and transformed as a person. As a result, the topic, content, and focus of my blogs has also been on the same type of journey. It’s only been recently where I’ve been able to accurately understand where I “fit” in terms of the online space.
I haven’t been able to “put my hat” anywhere yet, in terms of Ministry, so the best is yet to come.
2. Listen, Listen, Listen
Brad’s Thoughts:
Ask great questions of those around you, and then LISTEN to the answer. Don’t talk until you have something to say. But learn to ask great questions and learn from them. This is especially true in a team environment.
My Thoughts:
/facepalm
I have a very big mouth. One of the biggest lessons that God is teaching constantly is to just shut up and listen. If I didn’t, from a blog-perspective, you’d hear much more of me than you’d ever care to hear. What this has done, practically speaking, is created “filters” through and by which I create content. It’s been one of the greatest “gifts” ever.
3. Experience Creates Expertise
Brad’s Thoughts:
This is obvious, but sometimes we forget. Credibility comes with action- doing, not just thinking or talking. Jump in and get involved.
My Thoughts:
Agreed. A lot of people “talk” about social media and blogging and the like, but when push comes to shove I merely ask “what you’ve done” and “how you’ve done it.” Typically, a very poor showing ensues. If you’re an “expert” on blogging, then you probably blog… a lot… and you’ve probably “done it” for while.
4. A Platform Takes Time
Brad’s Thoughts:
It’s just a reality. Most of us aren’t patient enough to spend adequate TIME at DOING something until we gain a platform or credibility. We usually lose interest, get bored, or just simply move on to something else. The key- stick with it.
My Thoughts:
Technology has enabled those that may have never had a chance to have a platform have one faster and more effectively than before. I know this from just this “blog experiment” as I call it. The trouble has always been in “sustainability” in terms of blogging.
5. Connect with Leading Organizations, Networks, and Individuals
Brad’s Thoughts:
Connect with companies, teams or individuals who are highly respected, and you’ll gain respect. But the key on this- connect with them and ask how you can HELP them, not how you can gain from them.
My Thoughts:
Brad’s touched upon one of my heart-motives. I love giving help when I can through the gifts that I’ve been given. But I can definitely do much much more.
Your Thoughts…?
Let me have ’em.
Adam_S says
I don't know Brad thinks twitter is dumb so … : )
Ancoti says
Sound advice, and it has been for ages. Be aware of yourself and impact on others, listen and hear what they are saying, take them time to build somehting lasting.
Jim says
John,I think you need to start speaking at some more conferences. the listening piece is a big part of my life right now. my wife and i have had more conversations about listening to my customers, my teenagers, my friends, my pastor…and then writing about experiences. Sometimes, it's hard to gauge where you stand in terms of social media. I'm starting to see that God has led me personally to a lot of like-minded individuals who are story-tellers, speakers, teachers, pastors, etc. It reminds me of college where you knew after a while that you weren't going to click with everyone.
Frank Chiapperino says
I think Brad is right on and your thoughts are on target as well. I believe that the hardest two for most people are to "listen" and "a platform takes time." We are so quick to speak when we think we are an expert and often we have'nt done our time in a particular area to earn a voice.
human3rror says
you're right, and i've learned that the hard way in a number of different spots.
i'm in it for the long haul this time. thanks for that!