#116 Aug 13, 25

From Invisible to Influencer: Developing Unforgettable Presence with Lorraine K. Lee

This special episode of Chief Influencer features guest host Liesl Riddle, Dean of the College of Professional Studies at the George Washington University, and Lorraine K. Lee, a bestselling author and authority on workplace communication and executive presence. Lorraine, known for her work with top-tier organizations like Amazon, Zoom, and Cisco, shares insights from her book 'Unforgettable Presence' and her extensive experience as a keynote speaker and LinkedIn Top Voice. She discusses the concept of 'presence'—its importance, definition, and how to cultivate it effectively. Lorraine also emphasizes the significance of personal branding, listening, storytelling, and maintaining a strong LinkedIn presence. Additionally, she shares strategies for introverts and the impact of influence on professional growth. Throughout the episode, Lorraine provides practical tips and frameworks to help professionals at any stage enhance their visibility and build a successful career.

Takeaways:

Upgrade your LinkedIn profile with three quick changes to boost visibility and credibility. Simple tweaks like updating your headline, adding a professional photo, and refining your summary can make your profile stand out to recruiters and peers.
Craft a unique and powerful introduction using the UPI (Unique and Powerful Introduction) framework. Introducing yourself with authenticity and impact helps you make memorable first impressions in professional settings.
As an introvert, contribute after meetings by following up with thoughtful written input. If you’re not comfortable speaking up in real time, sending a follow-up email or message ensures your ideas are heard and valued.
Take ownership of your career by thinking and acting like the CEO of your own professional journey. Proactively set goals, seek opportunities, and make strategic decisions to drive your career forward.
Use feedback loops and regular iteration to accelerate your personal and professional growth. Consistently seeking feedback and making small improvements helps you learn faster and achieve better results.
Apply the "TEA Method" to improve your video presence and communication effectiveness. Focusing on both the depth and breadth of your message ensures you connect with your audience and convey your expertise.
Advocate for yourself by sharing your story, as illustrated in the "Audiobook Recording" example. Telling your own story with confidence can open doors and inspire others to recognize your value.

Quote of the Show:

“Presence is for everyone, at every level. When we approach our careers with intention and proactive energy, we create better outcomes.”

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineklee/
Website: https://lorraineklee.com/
Book: https://amzn.to/3Hdv79r
Free weekly career tips: lorraineklee.com/subscribe

Episode Video

Creators and Guests

Host

Anthony Shop

Anthony Shop believes in the power of people-centered branding and marketing to create a bright future. He chairs the National Digital Roundtable, the premier convener of digital innovators, leaders and policy shapers. Anthony also is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver, a digital services firm that helps companies and non-profits establish winning strategies with social media, websites, creative, and advertising. An enthusiastic presenter and teacher, he has led executive-level training for Amazon, PepsiCo, NASA, The British Embassy and the Bipartisan Policy Center. He has been recognized as an “OUTstanding LGBT Role Model” by The Financial Times, “40 Under 40” by The Washington Business Journal, and Business Leader of the Year by the DC Chamber of Commerce. A former newspaper reporter, Anthony was the first new media professional elected to the National Press Club’s Board of Governors. He currently serves on the boards of Leadership Greater Washington and LearnServe International. He earned his MBA from The George Washington University School of Business, where he teaches as an adjunct lecturer.

Host

Liesl Riddle

Dean of the George Washington University College of Professional Studies (CPS)

Producer

Amanda Goyette

Guest

Lorraine K. Lee

Best selling author, "Unforgettable Presence"

Producer

Robert Krueger

Robert is an Executive Director for The Communications Board, an organization with the mission of providing high-quality professional development for every communicator in every location. He is also the Global Lead for Partnership Communications at Gensler, the world’s largest architecture and design firm. Prior to his current role, he performed executive and CEO communications for Gensler, and was the senior director of public relations and social media at the Urban Land Institute. He obtained an MA in Communications and an MA in History from George Mason University. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In addition, Robert has taught communications at universities including George Mason University, West Virginia University, and the University of Florida. Robert currently serves as Immediate-Past President for the Public Relations Society of America’s National Capital Chapter (PRSA-NCC) -- the nonprofit’s largest chapter.