In today’s fast-paced digital world, the role of a CEO extends far beyond the boardroom. It’s no longer enough to make big decisions behind closed doors. To truly make an impact, today’s CEOs need to be in the spotlight, leading their brands with authenticity, charisma, and a dash of personality. This strategy, known as founder-led branding, is becoming the secret weapon for businesses that want to cut through the noise and connect with their audience on a deeper level.
But here’s the deal: while your CEO might have the vision and the voice, managing their presence on platforms like LinkedIn can be a whole different ballgame. That’s where LinkedIn management for CEOs comes into play. It’s not just about sharing updates—it’s about crafting a narrative that resonates, engages, and drives your brand’s success.
What Exactly Is Founder-Led Branding? And Why Should Your CEO Lead the Charge?
Founder-led branding is all about putting the face of your brand front and center. But it’s not just any face—it’s the person who embodies the brand’s mission, values, and story: your CEO. Why is this important? Because people connect with people, not just with logos or corporate jargon. When your CEO steps into the spotlight as the spokesperson for your brand, it humanizes the company, making it more relatable, trustworthy, and ultimately, more successful.
Think of it this way: Imagine you’re choosing between two companies. One has a faceless, corporate image, while the other is led by a passionate CEO who is actively sharing their journey, insights, and vision with the world. Which one would you trust? Which one would you feel more connected to? The answer is clear. By putting your CEO at the forefront, you’re not just promoting a product or service—you’re telling a story, creating a movement, and building a community of loyal followers.
CEOs Who Are Mastering Founder-Led Branding on LinkedIn
Now, let’s take a look at some trailblazing CEOs who are absolutely nailing founder-led branding on LinkedIn. These leaders have turned their personal stories into powerful brand narratives, and they’re reaping the rewards.
Marla Sofer: If you’re scrolling through LinkedIn and you spot Marla Sofer’s posts, you know you’ve struck gold. Marla is a dynamo in the world of entrepreneurship and finance—two topics that aren’t always the easiest to make exciting. But Marla does it with style and substance. As the visionary behind Knomee, she doesn’t just share insights; she delivers pure value. Her posts are packed with nuggets of wisdom that her community eagerly laps up. And here’s the kicker—Marla isn’t afraid to jump in front of the camera. Her videos are engaging, informative, and exactly what other founders should be doing to connect with their audiences. If you’re a founder looking to up your LinkedIn game, following Marla is a no-brainer.
Mark A. Samuel: Meet Mark, the powerhouse behind IWON Organics. Mark’s journey from passion to action is nothing short of inspiring. He’s taken his love for health and wellness and turned it into a brand that resonates with a broad audience. But Mark doesn’t just stop at selling products—he’s selling a lifestyle, a commitment to better living. On LinkedIn, Mark’s posts are a masterclass in personal branding. He’s not just talking at his audience; he’s engaging with them, celebrating their successes, and inspiring them to lead healthier lives. His approach to founder-led branding is all about authenticity and connection, making him a must-follow for anyone interested in how personal passion can drive brand success.
Leslie Greenwood: Leslie Greenwood is a beacon of light in the often-overlooked realm of community-building. As the Co-Founder of Wednesday Women, Leslie champions the power of individual connections and shared values. Her approach is rooted in the belief that communities thrive on genuine, value-driven engagement. Leslie’s LinkedIn presence is an extension of this philosophy. Her posts aren’t just about business—they’re about building meaningful relationships. Whether she’s highlighting the achievements of executive women leaders or sharing her insights on community engagement, Leslie’s page is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. Her brand message aligns perfectly with her personal brand, making her a standout example of how to do founder-led branding right.
Carlo Stocchetti: Carlo Stocchetti, CEO of The Bridges Group, is a leader who knows that success in real estate is about more than just closing deals—it’s about opening doors, literally and figuratively. Carlo’s LinkedIn is a mix of leadership insights, industry knowledge, and personal anecdotes that resonate with both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. He shares his journey in a way that’s relatable and informative, offering lessons learned from his experiences in real estate. Carlo’s posts often delve into the realities of leadership, providing truth and transparency that aspiring leaders can learn from. If you’re looking for real, actionable advice from someone who’s been in the trenches, Carlo’s profile is a must-visit.
Why Founder-Led Branding and LinkedIn Management Are a Winning Combination
So, what’s the big takeaway here? Founder-led branding isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful strategy that can elevate your brand to new heights. And LinkedIn is the perfect platform for your CEO to shine. But here’s the thing: managing a dynamic and impactful LinkedIn presence isn’t easy. It takes time, effort, and a deep understanding of how to connect with an audience.
That’s where Underdog Digital comes in. We specialize in LinkedIn management for CEOs and executives, helping them craft and share their brand stories in a way that drives engagement and results. Whether it’s optimizing profiles, creating compelling content, engaging with followers, or handling direct messaging, we do it all. And the results speak for themselves—our clients have seen a 1000% increase in views, new clients who specifically mention LinkedIn activity as the reason they booked, and significant growth in conversations started.
If you’re ready to take your founder-led branding to the next level and make your CEO the face of your brand, let’s chat. At Underdog Digital, we’re all about helping you shine on LinkedIn, so you can focus on what you do best—leading your company to success.