The Value and Energy of Thought Leadership | Liz Brunner | 431

How do you connect a high-profile brand with its best audience? Through great storytelling! Liz Brunner is the Founder and CEO of Brunner Communications, assisting high-profile individuals and organizations in developing powerful, meaningful, and desirable brand identities.  She is also the Founder of Brunner Academy of Online Learning, and the author of Dare to Own You: Taking Your Authenticity and Dreams into Your Next Chapter. Liz has had a number of professions over the course of her career, from high school music teacher to Emmy Award-winning news anchor. She explains that the key to her success can be summed up in two words: great storytelling. When you know the secrets of storytelling, you can capture the attention of your audience and keep them hooked. Having worked both in person and on television, it was easy for Liz to transition her work into the digital space after the pandemic started – in fact, she began to teach others how to engage in the virtual space and still move the dial. She shares why digital presenters need to think like TV stars, and how to get your audience to feel your presence - even through the lens. Our final topic revolves around the energy gained from working face-to-face, versus the newfound advantages of the digital space. Liz explains the pros and cons of each, and how to connect, communicate, and engage, developing the keys to success regardless of your medium. Three Key Takeaways: * When presenting virtually and using slides keep things moving! Use more slides with less content on each or include animations to keep the audience constantly engaged. * Looking directly into the camera when working online gives a feeling that you are looking directly at every member of your audience and engages them more. * While putting a message together you need to hook people right away, if you don't you'll miss an opportunity for your brand (personally and for your company).