Strategies For Developing A Compelling Leadership Narrative

Strategies For Developing A Compelling Leadership Narrative

Katie Britton, CPRW, NCOPE, CEO of Finesse Leadership Services, transforms C-Suite careers globally.

Here’s the simple truth that far too many executives ignore: You’re always branding.

Whether you’re putting thought behind what you create online or only posting here and there when inspiration strikes, everything you do is putting a brick onto the foundation of your brand. So why not be intentional about it?

Making A Case For An Executive Brand

Many executives feel that they shouldn’t build a brand around themselves and instead focus on what they can do to help boost the company or organization they work for. But this misses how the consumers are viewing business today:

• 82% of people trust companies more when senior executives are active on social media

• 77% are more likely to purchase from businesses with digitally-engaged CEOs

In other words, if you aren’t trying to lead through your executive brand, you’re potentially holding your business back.

And if you’re in the market to move to a new opportunity, you can bet that stakeholders and board members will be looking to see how you’re representing yourself online when choosing their next leader.

3 A’s For Crafting Your Executive Brand

So how can you start getting strategic with your executive brand? The recipe is unique to each leader and often requires you to consider your past experience, future aspirations and current audience.

1. Your Accomplishments: What have you accomplished up to this point that gives you a particular edge in your industry?

2. Your Aspirations: Where do you see yourself in the future? What kind of leader do you want to become?

3. Your Audience: Who are the key stakeholders you need to engage with? Are they potential employers, investors or customers?

These three pillars can help you craft authentic messaging around your executive brand that resonates with those you wish to influence. They can also act as a filter that allows only the opportunities you want to pursue to reach you.

Focus On These 3 Executive Branding Steps

Now that you have the philosophical down, it’s time to get creative. Here are the three areas you should lean into as you craft your executive brand.

1. Crafting A Compelling Résumé

Your résumé is often the first formal introduction to your executive brand. It’s not just a list of jobs; it’s a strategic document that tells your leadership story.

1. Executive Summary: Craft a powerful opening statement that encapsulates your brand. Highlight your unique value proposition (yes, you have one!) and set the tone for the rest of the résumé.

2. Achievement-Focused Content: Instead of listing job duties, showcase specific outcomes from those duties that demonstrate your leadership impact. Use metrics to add credibility to each.

3. Leadership Competencies: You’re the expert, so showcase it! Highlight key executive skills you’ve excelled in, like strategic planning, change management and team development.

4. Industry Expertise: Demonstrate your deep understanding of your sector. Include any relevant thought leadership activities, speaking engagements or publications—and don’t be afraid to mention that you’re available for more.

Remember, your résumé should be a living document, evolving as your career progresses and your brand develops. Think of it as a garden you’re tending to, not a concrete slab (or a tombstone!).

2. Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile

LinkedIn is your digital handshake. It’s where your executive brand comes to life in the professional world—and even if you don’t think it matters, those with the keys to future opportunities do! (Ten million C-suite execs are active on LinkedIn!)

1. Professional Photo And Banner: Use a high-quality, professional headshot and a banner image that reflects your industry or personal brand.

2. Compelling Headline: Go beyond your job title. Use this space to succinctly communicate your value proposition.

3. Engaging ‘About’ Section: Tell your professional story. What drives you? What unique perspective do you bring to your industry?

4. Featured Section: Showcase your thought leadership through articles, presentations or media appearances.

5. Activity And Engagement: Regularly share insights, comment on industry trends and engage with your network. Remember, consistency is key to building your online presence.

6. Recommendations: Cultivate meaningful recommendations that speak to your leadership qualities and impact. Don’t be afraid to reach out and collect these—they’re like buried diamonds.

3. Developing Your Leadership Narrative

Your leadership narrative is the thread that ties all elements of your executive brand together. It’s the story that makes you memorable and relatable—connecting your impact in the industry and the passion and purpose behind your work.

Here’s how you can start building it:

1. Identify Your ‘Why’: What motivates you as a leader? What values drive your decisions? What’s your ultimate purpose for getting up each day?

2. Define Your Leadership Style: Are you a transformational leader? A servant leader? Articulate what makes your approach unique and sprinkle in examples of it in action.

3. Highlight Pivotal Moments: What experiences shaped your leadership journey? These could be challenges overcome, lessons learned or key decisions made.

4. Future Vision: Where do you see yourself and your industry heading? Sharing your vision positions you as a forward-thinking leader.

5. Authenticity Is Key: While crafting your narrative, ensure it remains true to who you are. Authenticity resonates and builds trust.

Are You Actively Writing Your Story?

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Start today by implementing these strategies so doors can open, connections can deepen and your influence can expand.

Your unique voice and vision have the power to inspire change and drive success—and the business world is ready for your story. Are you ready to tell it?


Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches. Do I qualify?


link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *