Why Executive Branding Online is Non-Negotiable - Maarten Schafer
Despite holding key leadership roles and influencing the direction of entire companies, many executives are surprisingly absent online. This lack of visibility doesn’t stem from a lack of expertise, but rather from the absence of a well-crafted personal brand. For executives, this is a critical oversight. A strong personal brand isn’t just a “nice-to-have” — it’s essential for long-term professional success, business growth, and maintaining a strong company reputation.
According to a recent study by Brandfog, 82% of consumers are more likely to trust a company whose leadership is visible and active on social media. Another statistic that speaks volumes: 77% of professionals believe that an executive’s online presence directly impacts how they perceive the brand as a whole. And yet, many top-tier leaders are either silent or inconsistent with their online visibility.
This disconnect between leadership roles and online presence raises a crucial question: Why aren’t more executives making their personal branding a priority?
For many, the answer is simple — they are focused on their day-to-day operations, leading teams, and making high-level decisions. However, in doing so, they’re missing out on a powerful opportunity to amplify their influence beyond the boardroom.
A well-executed personal brand does more than just build visibility; it builds credibility. It opens doors to new partnerships, attracts top-tier talent, and drives business growth. It also makes executives more relatable to both employees and consumers, humanizing the leadership behind the company.
By controlling their narrative online, executives can:
- Position themselves as thought leaders in their industry by sharing insights, trends, and vision.
- Enhance trust among current and prospective customers, partners, and investors.
- Attract top talent — high-quality candidates are drawn to companies with leaders who inspire confidence.
- Increase company visibility and credibility in a world where consumers and stakeholders are more likely to engage with the people behind the brand.
In a time when consumers are more skeptical than ever, trust is a critical asset. Companies whose executives are active and visible online stand a much better chance of building that trust.
If you’re an executive not prioritizing your online presence, it’s time to rethink your approach. Building a personal brand means amplifying your expertise, sharing your values, and connecting with others on a meaningful level.
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