You don’t need a whole PR department to start. You just need clarity and consistency.
Step 1: Define your message
Write down:
- 3–5 things you want to be known for
- 3 things you don’t want to be associated with
- 2–3 audiences you’re speaking to (e.g., customers, talent, investors)
From that, craft a simple positioning sentence like:
“I’m a [role] focused on [primary theme] and [secondary
theme], helping [audience] achieve [specific outcome] in [industry].”
This becomes your internal filter for what you say yes/no to. It helps in CEO Branding
Step 2: Clean up your online presence
Start with:
- LinkedIn:
· Professional headshot
· Headline that says more than just “CEO at X”
· About section that combines personal story + company mission
Company bio:
· Short, readable, human
· Consistent with your LinkedIn message
Remove or update:
- Old profiles
- Outdated side projects that no longer reflect who you are
- Inconsistent job titles or descriptions
Step 3: Start showing up where your audience is
You don’t need to be everywhere. Pick 1–2 main channels and focus more content on CEO Branding topic.
Common options:
- LinkedIn – best for B2B, leadership, hiring, investors
- X (Twitter) – good for founders & tech, quick takes, industry commentary
- YouTube / podcast guest spots – deeper storytelling and thought leadership
Post consistently, even if it’s just:
- 1–2 thoughtful posts per week
- Occasional comments on other relevant posts
- Sharing company milestones with your own short perspective
Step 4: Develop a content rhythm
To avoid “What do I post?” paralysis, rotate through a few content types:
- Perspective: your take on industry news or trends
- Behind the scenes: how you think about decisions, culture, or leadership
- Lessons learned: things you got wrong, fixed, or discovered over time
- Signal boosts: highlight your team, customers, or partners
Keep it:
- Simple language
- Short paragraphs
- Specific, not vague platitudes
Step 5: Speak, write, and show up
As your presence grows, layer in:
- Podcasts or webinar appearances
- Industry events or panels
- Occasional articles or op-eds on topics you deeply understand
