What is an opinion maker?
At a time that calls for disruptive thinkers and media skills, opinion makers have an important role to play. An opinion maker is someone who influences public opinion formation and thus makes a significant contribution to (certain aspects of) the social debate.
The opinion maker has actually been around for a long time. The Romans, who were trained in oratory, also had influential politicians and people of repute who could be seen as opinion makers 'avant la lettre'. Consider, for example, Senator Cato the Elder, who concluded every public appearance with the same words: “By the way, I am of the opinion that Carthage should be destroyed.”
That steadfastness ultimately paid off when the Romans actually razed the North African city – Rome's great rival in the struggle for hegemony in the Mediterranean for centuries – in 146 BC.
Mass media
The modern opinion maker operates in a different climate, namely that of the mass media (television, radio and print) and social media. Through these channels, the modern opinion maker gives his or her vision on social or business developments. Opinion makers can come from all walks of life, but are often leaders from politics, media, show business, science or business.
Characteristics of an opinion maker
Although opinion makers form a mixed group in terms of professional background and personal life, they do share a number of common characteristics.
Good argument
A good opinion maker understands the art of substantiating an argument with cogent arguments. Arguments are well structured, to the point and formulated in a logical order. Depending on the nature and duration of a debate, a good opinion maker can also 'play' with that order. Moreover, he or she can frame positions excellently and defend them with flying colors in a debate.
Critical thinking skills
One of the best ways to distinguish a good opinion maker from a politician is to test someone's critical thinking skills. A good opinion maker is open to scientific facts and new insights, and uses them to formulate or adjust visions more clearly. Critical thinking also means that an opinion maker always doubts information he or she is presented with. The Cartesian adage “I doubt, therefore I think, therefore I am” is an important motto of a good opinion maker.
Immerse yourself in the other person's points of view
A good opinion maker has the ability to delve into the views of others. This means that you understand the thoughts of those who think differently and know how to use that knowledge effectively in the debate, for example by listening carefully and understanding and exploiting flaws in the web of arguments of opponents.
Dare
A good opinion maker has the courage to row against the current. He or she is also willing to express opinions that go against established thought structures and with which many people do not agree.
Thick skin
Proclaiming unpopular opinions means that you will regularly receive a mountain of criticism. An opinion maker can handle this very well and does not easily feel stepped on his or her toes.
Knowledge of the social context
An excellent opinion maker has a sensitive social antenna. He or she knows what is going on in society and can use this to make connections that not everyone sees. An opinion maker is therefore well informed and uses that knowledge to stimulate discussions and pave the way for social progress.
Media literacy
A modern opinion maker knows how to deal with the media to present his message in the most favorable way possible. Generating 'free publicity' is no problem for him or her. At the same time, a pure opinion maker is commercially independent.