Your competition is handing out business cards.

You should be handing out books.

Daily LinkedIn posts? That's table stakes now. If you're a C-suite executive or fractional leader, you need authority-building strategies that open doors to board positions, high-value speaking gigs, and meaningful opportunities beyond your immediate sphere.

Below are 8 power moves that separate enduring thought leaders from content creators.

1. Write a Book in Your Domain

When your competition hands out business cards, you hand out books.

My first book, Everything You Wish to Ask a Headhunter, led directly to corporate training engagements at organisations like James Cook University and Prudential, instantly strengthening my value proposition compared to other trainers.

My latest book, No More Bosses, has yet to deliver tangible results (other than book sales), but with Singapore's rising interest in fractional leadership, I can’t think of a stronger authority signal than having authored the nation's only book on the subject.

2. Secure Speaking Slots at Industry Events

When you speak, people see you as a category expert.

This works even better at a larger event where there would be other peers speaking. The sheer presence in the same room will elevate your authority closer to their level. Being in these circles fast-tracks your credibility to a new level.

Pro-tip: If you want to ease your way into speaking, start with moderating a session like what Debbie Yong did.

3. Teach as an Adjunct Professor

Academic ties = institutional credibility.

Adeline Tiah enhances her executive profile by teaching at SUSS. When you teach, you're seen as someone so good in your space that you are teaching others how to do the same thing.

4. Win Industry Awards and Recognition

Third-party validation beats self-promotion every time.

Gaining recognition, like SHRI Entrepreneur of the Year or being named an AIHR global HR influencer, opens doors to roles and consulting opportunities that endless self-marketing cannot.

Many awards receive fewer applications than you think, so don’t avoid them due to discomfort with self-nomination.

5. Join Industry Body Committees

These roles are gateways to sector leadership.

Active involvement in bodies like Singapore Computer Society (SCS) has helped leaders gain influence and visibility.

These committees are often the fastest route to rooms where big decisions are made.

6. Secure Non-Profit Board Positions

Board experience marks you as an authority and radically expands your network.

Serving on boards like Guide Dogs Singapore and the Singapore Staffing Association changed how others perceived my expertise.

People often assume you're extremely high-value or sought-after if you hold these seats.

The reality: board appointments are often about who you know, not just what you know.

7. Write for Mainstream Media

A media byline multiplies your credibility.

My regular commentaries for Channel NewsAsia threw open doors, with invitations for podcasts, panel spots, and new client relationships that followed.

8. Podcast Power: Host and Guest

Podcasts change the authority equation whether you are the host, like Nicole Lee or a guest.

For instance, Frank Koo gained 600+ views from Nicole’s audience by being on her show.

The Compound Effect

These moves build on each other:

• Book → Speaking gigs

• Speaking → Teaching

• Awards → Media features

• Media → Podcast invites

• Podcasting → Expanded networks

• Board seats → Institutional trust

• Committees → Leadership relationships

Daily posts only reach your existing circle. Power moves put you into rooms you’re not yet in.

Many will skip these approaches—they require sustained effort and the patience for delayed rewards. That’s your unfair advantage.

Stop competing on volume. Start competing on authority.
Your personal brand should open doors—not just generate likes.

🎧 Podcast

In this eye-opening episode, Eric Tan, a seasoned entrepreneur and chartered accountant, reveals the staggering realities and misconceptions of starting your own business. From the relentless grind and overwhelming stress to the illusion of having more control over your time, Eric shares his journey from working for Pricewaterhouse to running his own successful accounting and consulting firms.

Tune in to uncover the brutal challenges faced by new businesses, the importance of setting realistic goals, and why you should think twice before diving into entrepreneurship. Plus, get invaluable insights on the best business structures and tax considerations to ensure your startup's success. This is a must-watch for aspiring entrepreneurs!

This episode is brought to you by Deel, the all-in-one platform simplifying global team management with payroll, HR, IT, and compliance solutions, trusted by over 35,000 businesses worldwide. Learn more at ⁠deel.com/adriantan⁠.

Adrian Tan
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