Unpopular Opinion: Being a Great CEO Isn’t Enough Anymore

Most CEOs believe that their skills, experience, and leadership will define their success. But in today’s world, that’s only half the equation.

The truth? If nobody knows who you are, your expertise doesn’t matter.

The Visibility Gap: Why Great CEOs Are Overlooked

Many CEOs assume they have enough visibility simply because they run a large company. They believe their corporate brand is doing the work for them.

But here’s what actually happens inside most organizations:

The focus is on protecting the brand, not amplifying leadership. PR teams spend more time managing reputation than proactively positioning the CEO as an industry leader.

Companies react to the external narrative instead of leading it. Instead of shaping conversations, they respond to them.

The CEO remains behind the scenes, missing opportunities to build influence.

Attention is the New Currency for CEOs

The leaders who shape industries are the ones who actively build visibility, engage with their audience, and lead conversations.

Consider these questions:

Are you just managing your company’s reputation, or are you building your own influence?

Are you recognized outside of your organization as an industry leader?

Do people in your field actively seek out your insights and expertise?

If the answer is no, it’s time to rethink your approach.

How to Build CEO Influence in 2025 & Beyond

Step 1: Step Out from Behind the Corporate Brand

Your company’s brand is important, but your personal brand is what will establish trust, authority, and long-term influence.

Start sharing your expertise. Speak publicly. Write. Engage. Let the world see the leader behind the company.

Step 2: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Instead of waiting for the media or your marketing team to shape your narrative, take control of your story.

Post thought leadership content regularly.

Engage with your audience directly (LinkedIn, interviews, speaking events).

Position yourself as the go-to expert in your industry.

Step 3: Make Connections That Matter

People follow people, not faceless brands. The most influential CEOs build direct connections with their audience, investors, partners, and customers.

Engage, network, and be present where key industry conversations are happening.

The world is changing fast. The next generation of CEOs will be highly visible, highly connected, and highly influential.

If you wait, others will take the lead. If you start now, you can shape the future.

Want to know how to apply this to your leadership? Tune into today’s episode for the full breakdown.

Highlights:

00:00 The Importance of CEO Visibility

00:29 Shifting Focus from Brand to Personal Leadership

00:46 Taking Action for Future Impact

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