Becoming a contrarian, and thinking against the grain, can help to position as you as an expert. However, there are minefields to be avoided. Such as this one: Don't ever back down.
Douglas Kruger is the author of several bestselling business books from Penguin, including two on expert-positioning: Own Your Industry, and What Makes Them Great?
He specialises in issues around leadership, culture, innovation and disruption.
See him in action, or book him as the keynote speaker for your next conference, at www.douglaskruger.com.