How To Become Your Own Newsfeed

True leaders take control of the narrative, says Tory Archbold, who as the founder of two global businesses, has known a few leaders in her time. Here, Tory shares exactly how you can use LinkedIn to shape your story into a newsfeed worth following.

Stand in your power online

Have you noticed how more and more, thought leaders and ground breakers are boldly choosing to make their own career move announcements with their own voice, via platforms such as LinkedIn? Yep, the days of having to wait for traditional media to sit up and notice, and share our stories for us, are done. The rise of socials has democratised the playing field in terms of storytelling, and senior leaders are now recognising more than ever the power of owning and sharing their own story.

Use your voice

Trailblazing leaders understand that when they choose to stand in their power online, they can control their own narrative, which is hugely powerful. For example, it’s increasingly common to see CEOs and other C-suite executives widely sharing their own career news, whether that be taking on a new role, a career pivot, choosing to step down, or simply taking time out. It’s becoming accepted – and even expected – that when leaders have been made redundant (yes, it happens to everyone) they are happy to discuss it openly. Which brings me to…

The power of authenticity

If you want your story to land, and be received in a powerful way, being authentic is everything. Those who are brave enough to be real, to drop the façade and even incorporate some vulnerability (in a way that feels comfortable and appropriate, of course) find that their posts receive much more engagement.

For example, in my LinkedIn network recently, a connection wrote openly and honestly about her experience of being in the final few candidates for three different roles – and landing none of them. Her raw authenticity was received with compassion and awe, and the comments from her network flowed in, expressing respect for her bravery (and I’ve no doubt the offers from her network soon followed in her inbox).

Ego-led leadership is a thing of the past

What do I mean when I talk about ego-led leaders? These are the people in your network who show the squeaky-clean polished image, and won’t talk about their challenges (even though, let’s face it, we all have them). If they bump into a career challenge, such as losing a big client or being made redundant, ego-led leaders make no announcement. When the word gets out, they deliver explanations such as, “I want to play more golf,” for fear a less-than-glossy truth might tarnish their reputation. (“I have enough money to survive” is my favourite explanation from a senior leader who was very much in the public eye!) Essentially, this type of leader is led by fear.

Be a heart-led leader

The most successful leaders are heart-leaders. They leave their ego at the door because they believe the most important role they have is being of service to others. In practice, this means owning your challenges, coming clean about your shortcomings, and not being afraid to just be, well, human. Shaping your own narrative via personally curated, heart-led storytelling is a powerful means to connect with and expand your network. When you embrace this mentality, you will find that…

Authenticity opens doors

Being authentic means you are clear on what you value, what you have achieved and what has challenged you in your journey to becoming a better leader. This is what truly inspires others in your network. Everyone faces challenges in business and life. No human is 100% perfect. When you anchor in your truth and show people possibilities through your own lived experience in your posts, you are creating content that adds true value for your followers. And this is, my friends, is what will ensure the right doors will always open for you.

Want to join Tory Archbold’s community of like minded female entrepreneurs seeking to thrive in business and in life? Sign up to the #coffeechallenge today or join one of our powerful programs www.powerful-steps.com