One of the most powerful features: “social proof.” - Maarten Schaefer
In the Reputation Economy, Visibility Is Your Greatest Asset
We’ve entered a new era of business — one where your reputation precedes you, and your digital presence defines you. In this “reputation economy,” your professional success is increasingly tied to how well those achievements are seen, understood, and valued online.
Today, Google is the new background check. Before a client calls, before a board schedules the interview, or before a recruiter shortlists a candidate — there’s a search. And what comes up in those first few seconds can be the deciding factor between opportunity and obscurity. In this climate, managing your digital reputation isn’t optional — it’s a competitive advantage.
The Power of Social Proof
One of the most powerful dynamics at play in the digital age is social proof. It’s no longer enough to say you’re the best at what you do — others need to say it for you. Whether it’s LinkedIn endorsements, media mentions, panel appearances, or thought leadership content, third-party validation is gold. When clients, investors, or partners see others engaging with and affirming your expertise, it creates trust. And trust is the currency of business.
That’s why your presence on platforms like LinkedIn, Google, and professional social networks is your reputation on display. The most compelling leaders are not only known for what they do, but also for how and why they do it. That’s the story people are looking for when they search your name.
Crafting Your Digital Advantage
The facts of your career — your roles, titles, and metrics — are the baseline. They qualify you, but they don’t differentiate you. What sets you apart is your narrative: the story that connects your work to your values, your impact, and your vision for what’s next. That’s what makes someone stop scrolling and start paying attention.
So what should you do?
- Clarify what you stand for. Define the values, causes, and ideas you’re committed to advancing.
- Translate accomplishments into insights. Don’t just list what you’ve done — explain what you’ve learned and what it means for your industry.
- Create content that reflects your thinking. Publish short posts, contribute to articles, or speak on panels. Every touchpoint builds credibility.
- Make your story visible. Optimize your LinkedIn profile, ensure your Google results reflect who you are today, and contribute to platforms that align with your voice and expertise.
The Opportunity Ahead
This shift in how we assess talent and opportunity is creating new business models focused on visibility, credibility, and digital storytelling. From executive branding firms to content platforms to digital reputation management, the demand is growing fast — for both individuals and the companies that serve them.
There’s never been a better time to build your professional presence with purpose. In the reputation economy, you are — like it or not — who Google says you are. But with the right strategy, you can make sure Google is saying exactly what you want it to.
Maarten Schäfer
Keynote speaker — Author
Read more:
CoolBrands People
Signitt LinkedIn page
In Between the Lines
The Flipside
!mpact Magazine
The Signitt Network 2
Medium — Point of view
Signitt — The Network
