10 signs your executive isn’t ready for thought leadership (and why)
Over the years, I’ve heard some truly eyebrow-raising things while helping executives craft their “thought leadership” personas. Some of the quotes in this list are paraphrased, but make no mistake — they’re rooted in reality. From dismissing LinkedIn as “a glorified job board” to insisting personal stories are “too emotional,” these gems reveal why many leaders are better off staying out of the thought leadership spotlight. If any of this sounds familiar, don’t worry — you’re not alone. Let’s dive in.
“LinkedIn is for people who need a job. I don’t need a job.”
Why it matters: Reducing LinkedIn to just a job-seeking platform shows a lack of awareness about its role as a hub for industry dialogue and influence. Thought leadership requires embracing platforms where professionals gather — not dismissing them as beneath you.
“Just have the PR team draft some thought pieces. I’m too busy running the company.”
Why it matters: Delegating is fine, but thought leadership demands a personal touch. The content will feel generic and disconnected if your executive can’t carve out time to share their unique perspective.
“What’s the point of this? If it doesn’t make money, why should I care?”
Why it matters: Viewing thought leadership solely as a direct revenue driver misses the bigger picture: building trust, shaping narratives, and creating opportunities. It’s about influence, not immediate transactions.
“Let’s keep this so neutral that it works for everyone. I don’t want any controversy with my name on it.”
Why it matters: Thought leaders don’t aim to please everyone — they aim to make an impact. Playing it safe results in watered-down content that fails to inspire or engage anyone.
“Let’s keep this so neutral that it works for everyone. I don’t want any controversy with my name on it.”
Why it matters: Thought leaders don’t aim to please everyone — they aim to make an impact. Playing it safe results in watered-down content that fails to inspire or engage anyone.
“I’m the face of the company. Let’s talk about me and why I’m great.”
Why it matters: Thought leadership isn’t self-promotion — it’s about offering value to others. If your executive is focused on ego rather than insights, the audience will tune out quickly.
“Let’s go all in on this viral meme trend. It’s what people love right now.”
Why it matters: Jumping on trends without substance undermines credibility. Thought leadership is about standing above the noise, not chasing fleeting fads for cheap attention.
“Personal stories? No one needs to hear about my struggles. They should focus on my success.”
Why it matters: Audiences connect with authenticity, not perfection. Refusing to share personal challenges robs the content of relatability and emotional depth.
“Commenting back on posts is a waste of my time. I’m not here to chat — I’m here to lead.”
Why it matters: Ignoring engagement signals disinterest in building a real connection with the audience. True thought leaders understand the value of dialogue, not just monologue.
“I don’t care if it’s good, I just want it to blow up. Make it happen.”
Why it matters: Viral content isn’t a guarantee of influence. Sustainable thought leadership requires consistent, high-quality contributions — not a one-off hit.
“I know what people need to hear better than they do. Let’s just post what I think is important.”
Why it matters: Effective thought leaders listen as much as they speak. Dismissing the audience’s needs in favor of personal opinions signals arrogance, not leadership.
Conclusion
If these quotes hit too close to home, your executive might need a reality check before stepping into the thought leadership spotlight. Success comes from humility, consistency, and a genuine desire to serve the audience. Which of these quotes have you heard in your workplace? Let’s discuss!
Will Kelly is a writer, strategist, and keen observer of the IT industry. Medium is home to his personal writing projects. His professional interests include generative AI, cloud computing, DevOps, and collaboration tools. He has written for startups, Fortune 1000 firms, and leading industry publications, including CIO and TechTarget. Follow him on X: @willkelly. You can also follow him on BlueSky: willkelly.bsky.social.
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