Find Your Voice: The First Step to Becoming an Opinion Leader

Beginning the Journey

I still remember the moment I first stepped onto LinkedIn. With a network so small I could count my connections on one hand, it felt like a humble beginning. Yet, that moment has become one of the most pivotal decisions of my life. As I consistently shared my thoughts, engaged in conversations about my interests, and steadily grew my network, something incredible happened—people started noticing me.

Then came a milestone that changed everything. About a year into sharing my expertise on LinkedIn, I received an email that took my breath away. I had been named one of the Top Contributors for e27, a renowned tech media outlet in Singapore. Reading those words, I was overcome with disbelief and joy. It was a moment of clarity—a realization that all my hard work and persistence had blossomed into something truly meaningful. The knowledge and insights I had shared were resonating with professionals across the globe. It wasn’t just an achievement; it was a deeply fulfilling reminder of the power of authentic connection.

That recognition became a turning point, opening the doors to a new chapter on the global stage. From that moment of acknowledgment in Singapore, my content gained even more traction, helping me build a network that transcended borders. It was the start of something much bigger than I had ever imagined.

This journey has been so much more than “personal branding.” It has been a path of discovering my unique value and transforming it into genuine influence. For me, LinkedIn wasn’t just a platform—it became a stage where I could amplify my dreams and unlock my true potential.

That single step onto LinkedIn set me on a course that changed everything, proving that even the smallest beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Opportunities Opened by LinkedIn

Endless Possibilities Through LinkedIn's Network

For me, LinkedIn has been far more than a profile page—it has been a powerful tool that unlocked limitless opportunities. Through this platform, I found incredible chances to showcase my expertise not just locally, but on a global stage.

With the support and encouragement of startup CEOs and professionals worldwide, I was recognized as a standout creator by Korea’s leading startup magazine, EO Planet, and had the privilege of serving as a Thought Leader for Singapore’s influential tech media platform, e27. By consistently sharing insights rooted in my experiences and perspectives—through in-depth articles and interviews on global tech and startup trends—I connected with countless people, fostering engagement that cemented my reputation as an expert in my field.

Recently, I reached what I consider the pinnacle of my journey so far: winning the "Global Women of Influence Awards 2024." This honor was more than just a trophy; it was a testament to the trust and impact I have cultivated on LinkedIn and a profound reminder of how far my influence has reached.

LinkedIn has truly been the gateway to possibilities I never imagined, transforming connections into an extraordinary journey of influence and inspiration.through LinkedIn and how far my voice had reached.

A Special Opportunity That Began in LinkedIn DMs

One day, I stumbled upon a truly extraordinary message in my LinkedIn inbox. It was a DM from a journalist at a prominent Korean newspaper. To my surprise, they had been conducting research on LinkedIn’s growing influence in Korea and had been referred to me directly by LinkedIn’s U.S. headquarters media team.

The journalist asked insightful questions about how I leverage LinkedIn, my unique strategies, and why the platform has recently gained such traction in Korea. During our conversation, I shared my experiences, focusing on my trust-based approach to LinkedIn and effective profile-building techniques using AI. These discussions were later featured in a detailed article.

But this wasn’t just about media exposure. This article became a platform to highlight my success story and strategies, spreading awareness about the importance of personal branding and the power of digital platforms. It allowed my journey to inspire a wider audience and underscored how LinkedIn can unlock opportunities for anyone willing to embrace its potential.

Expanding Networks and Opportunities

After the article was published, I began receiving messages from experts and leaders across various fields. Many shared how my experiences and insights had given them the courage to embark on their own digital branding journey, while others reached out for advice.

These interactions made me realize the profound impact my work has had on others. They also reinforced my sense of responsibility and gave me greater confidence to continue this journey with purpose and dedication. Knowing that my efforts inspire others has been both humbling and empowering, driving me to push forward with even greater resolve.

The Power of LinkedIn and the Global Stage

Looking back on this journey, I’ve come to truly appreciate the unique role LinkedIn has played in my life. It has been so much more than a networking platform—it has been a powerful medium to amplify my voice and connect me to opportunities.

LinkedIn has been a steadfast partner, helping me build my personal brand and extend my influence on a global stage. I am deeply grateful for the global network it has enabled, which has allowed my story to inspire and drive positive change for so many others. This is the undeniable power of LinkedIn at work.

4 Steps to Becoming an Opinion Leader

Step 1 : Build Your Network: Find Your Audience

Who are the people you want to connect with, and who needs to hear your voice?

LinkedIn is home to over a billion users worldwide. Among them are people waiting to hear your story. Actively seek out those who would benefit from your insights.

When I first started building my network, I didn’t stop at sending connection requests. I engaged with groups and individuals who could truly benefit from my perspectives, leaving thoughtful comments and initiating meaningful conversations. Through this approach, I began connecting with global experts in tech and startups, and my network steadily grew from there.

Step 2 : Define Your Expertise: Find Your Voice

Everyone has a unique voice, but discovering and clearly defining it is another challenge. Early in my LinkedIn journey, I focused on the topic of “tech & investment trends and the global expansion of startups.” Initially, this niche felt narrow, but over time, it positioned me as a standout expert in the field.

Concentrating on one area builds trust and makes your audience look forward to your content. It allows people to recognize you as a reliable source and thought leader in your domain.

Step 3 : Share Your Story: Inspire Through Authenticity

People aren’t captivated by the surface of success—they are drawn to the real story hidden beneath it. One reason I was able to grow my LinkedIn following so quickly was my willingness to share my journey honestly.

For example, I once wrote about the overwhelming emotions I felt when I reached 10,000 followers and the mix of excitement and fear I experienced when embarking on my first publishing venture. That post wasn’t just a record of milestones; it was a raw and heartfelt narrative of my struggles, dreams, and the lessons I learned along the way.

The response was extraordinary. The comments overflowed with people saying, “I hope to take on a challenge like this someday,” and messages poured in from those who said my story gave them the courage to pursue their own aspirations.

If I had simply listed my achievements, I would never have received such heartfelt reactions. It’s the failures, setbacks, and the growth that comes from them that create the most powerful connections. When our stories are filled with authenticity, they transcend mere success stories and become a source of hope and inspiration for others.

Step 4 : Move Beyond Connections: Build Influence

Simply having a large network isn’t enough. True influence is born from meaningful conversations and collaborative efforts. Connections are just the starting point; nurturing those relationships and growing together is what truly matters.

One of the most rewarding experiences on LinkedIn has been connecting with diverse experts through my content on tech and investment trends. Initially, I was just sharing my opinions, but over time, my posts became catalysts for lively discussions and deeper conversations.

I’ve learned that influence comes from the quality of connections, not the quantity. When your content goes beyond providing information and instead offers new perspectives and inspiration, your network evolves into a foundation for real influence.

Start expanding your impact in your field by fostering meaningful dialogues and collaborations. Don’t stop at building connections—use your network to drive genuine change. When you do this, you won’t just be part of the conversation; you’ll lead it.

Let Your Voice Be Heard

LinkedIn is more than a tool for career building—it’s a powerful stage to amplify your voice to the world. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through my LinkedIn journey is that anyone can become an opinion leader. You don’t need extraordinary qualifications or flawless success. What truly matters is whether you have a story to tell and the courage to share it with the world.

People relate more to honest journeys and lessons learned than to polished success stories. Your voice might feel small, but to someone, it could be the spark of courage or inspiration they need. LinkedIn is the platform that can make this possible. Share your experiences, your growth, and your insights with the world. Along this journey, you’ll find yourself growing not just as a participant in your network but as a leader who moves the world with your voice.

Are you ready to let your voice be heard for the first time?

What’s Next?

In the posts to come, I’ll dive deeper into the journeys of inspiring leaders who have transformed their values and expertise into impactful personal brands. Drawing from their stories and the insights shared in their books, we’ll uncover actionable strategies to help you refine and elevate your own brand, turning your unique voice into lasting influence.

So, what’s your story?

What topic are you ready to lead the conversation on?

Share your thoughts in the comments—I’m here to listen, connect, and support your journey every step of the way!

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