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What does corporate visibility really mean inside a global organisation – and why does it still feel uncomfortable for so many professionals, especially in Germany?
In this conversation, Lauren Gesing, winner of the Rising Star of the Corporate Influencer Awards 2026, shares what it truly takes to move from being excellent at your job to becoming visible for your expertise. Drawing from her experience at Henkel, she offers a grounded and honest perspective on personal branding within a structured corporate environment.
Corporate visibility is often misunderstood. Many professionals believe that doing great work should naturally lead to recognition. However, Lauren explains that visibility is not automatic – it is intentional. Being skilled is one thing, but being known for that skill is another.
Inside large organisations like Henkel, visibility requires stepping slightly outside traditional comfort zones. It means sharing insights, speaking up, and building a presence beyond internal teams.
One of the most interesting aspects discussed is the cultural hesitation around self-promotion in Germany. Many professionals associate visibility with arrogance, making them reluctant to share their achievements or opinions publicly.
This creates an unspoken barrier. Talented individuals often stay invisible, not because they lack expertise, but because they fear being judged by colleagues or misunderstood by leadership.
Lauren highlights that shifting this mindset is key. Visibility is not about ego – it is about contribution. When framed correctly, sharing knowledge becomes an act of value creation rather than self-promotion.
A major concern for professionals is how to build a personal brand while working within a global company. Lauren addresses this directly by explaining the importance of alignment.
Your personal brand should not compete with your company – it should complement it. At Henkel, this means sharing expertise that reinforces the company’s positioning while still maintaining an authentic individual voice.
This balance requires clarity, responsibility, and awareness of internal guidelines. It is not about saying everything – it is about saying the right things with purpose.
Corporate influencer marketing is no longer a trend – it is becoming a key part of modern communication strategies. Employees with strong personal brands often build trust faster than traditional corporate channels.
Lauren explains that organisations benefit when their experts are visible. It humanises the brand, builds credibility, and creates stronger connections with audiences.
However, this also comes with responsibility. A public voice requires consistency, thoughtfulness, and alignment with company values.
One of the biggest challenges professionals face is translating deep technical knowledge into engaging content. Lauren shares that the key lies in simplification and storytelling.
Instead of focusing on complexity, focus on clarity. Break down insights into digestible ideas that others can understand and apply. This not only increases reach but also positions you as a trusted expert.
Thought leadership is not about knowing everything – it is about sharing what you know in a way that helps others.
Fear of judgment is one of the biggest barriers to visibility. Many professionals hesitate to post, speak, or share because they worry about how they will be perceived internally.
Lauren’s advice is simple – start small. Visibility is built over time. The first step is not perfection, but consistency.
As confidence grows, so does impact. Over time, what once felt uncomfortable becomes natural.
Corporate visibility is no longer optional – it is becoming essential. In a world where expertise alone is not enough, being visible for what you know creates opportunities, influence, and growth.
Lauren Gesing’s journey at Henkel highlights an important shift. The future belongs to professionals who are not only skilled but also seen, heard, and trusted.
Visibility, when done right, is not self-promotion – it is leadership.
Hypewomen Podcast is for people who want to change the narrative of their life. We tap into the stories and mindsets of empowered women from all walks of life around the world. What do they have that you don’t? Take a listen to find out.
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