Written by: Vickie Sullivan  |  May 07, 2026

‘Vibe’ Isn’t Fluff. It’s the Edge in Thought Leadership Today

Remember when public speaking and personal branding became commoditized leadership skills? Well, content marketing has entered the chat, especially when it comes to thought leadership voice.

As more executives use op-ed pieces and podcasts to boost their thought leadership, leadership voice, how someone appears and sounds (aka “vibe”), has taken center stage. This SmartBrief article (free signup required) outlines an interesting matrix that helps create the best version of you.

What I like most about this system is the continuum. Too much or too little are equally damaging. But finding that sweet spot is easier said than done.

This article makes a broader point that gets lost in the sea of expertise. In the tidal wave of great ideas, what stands out is not depth. It’s how we come across. Insiders call it “voice.” The kids call it “vibe.” But that elusive perception creates context, a container that influences how your perspective is received, shared, and trusted.

Here’s what I’m telling clients now: How you are perceived is just as important as what you have to say (if not more). So, be sure to devote just as much time, effort, and resources to building your thought leadership voice as you do your insights.

Now Read This:

• The Messenger Now Matters More than the Message
• Brand and Message Strategy for Thought Leaders

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