Thought leaders aren’t just people who throw out idea after idea, hoping one stick around. They’re the people who give well-rounded answers to complicated questions.

They earn their reputation by providing solutions that can both connect with and inspire those around them. They may be recognized leaders in their company, but they don’t have to be.

Anyone with enough insight and experience can be a thought leader if they have the right characteristics, but different thought leaders have different characteristics.

Some work better on their own while others prefer to collaborate. Some want to challenge conventional views for the sake of progress while others want to use their competitive streak to bring out the best in themselves and their company.

It’s worth taking time to dissect and analyze these qualities to answer the all-important question: what type of thought leader are you?