Chief Influencer

Bob Witeck serves as the President of Witeck Communications, Inc., the oldest LGBTQ-owned business enterprise certified by the NGLCC (National LGBT Chamber of Commerce). The organization is known for pioneering communication strategies and is dedicated to advancing LGBTQ communities globally. Witeck Communications focuses on leveraging data and personalized narratives to encourage corporations to recognize the LGBTQ market as an opportunity and to promote inclusive, fair, and equitable corporate policies.

In this episode, Bob stresses the significance of authenticity and engagement, cautioning leaders against silence as a strategy amidst risks. He underscores that success lies in communicating values and engaging with diverse communities.

Bob advises leaders to utilize data and personal narratives, noting that while data provides credibility and insight, authentic storytelling fosters deeper connections, leading to meaningful influence and change. He urges leaders to recognize the importance of visibility and representation, emphasizing that embracing differences can empower communities and enhance brand relationships.

Takeaways:
  • Leaders need to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion not just as concepts but as strategic business imperatives that foster an environment of fairness and opportunity, thereby enhancing brand loyalty and corporate reputation.
  • Silence is not a strategy for addressing risks. Open communication and value articulation are vital. 
  • Use both data and storytelling to make a compelling case for change. Data provides credibility, while stories connect on an emotional level. 
  • Embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as crucial to business success, not just social responsibility. 
  • Understand the importance of visibility and representation in empowering communities and strengthening brand relationships. 
  • Recognize that navigating controversies requires reaffirming brand values rather than retreating into silence. 
  • Approach DEI initiatives boldly and clearly, being mindful of language to avoid triggering unnecessary backlash. 
  • Foster an environment where differences are celebrated, and inclusivity is seen as a strength, seeking to connect with all aspects of the consumer base.

Quote of the Show:
  • “Embrace differences, celebrate values. Silence is not an option for authentic brands.”
  • “Silence is not a strategy.”

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Creators & Guests

Host
Anthony Shop
Anthony Shop believes in the power of people-centered branding and marketing to create a bright future. He chairs the National Digital Roundtable, the premier convener of digital innovators, leaders and policy shapers. Anthony also is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver, a digital services firm that helps companies and non-profits establish winning strategies with social media, websites, creative, and advertising. An enthusiastic presenter and teacher, he has led executive-level training for Amazon, PepsiCo, NASA, The British Embassy and the Bipartisan Policy Center. He has been recognized as an “OUTstanding LGBT Role Model” by The Financial Times, “40 Under 40” by The Washington Business Journal, and Business Leader of the Year by the DC Chamber of Commerce. A former newspaper reporter, Anthony was the first new media professional elected to the National Press Club’s Board of Governors. He currently serves on the boards of Leadership Greater Washington and LearnServe International. He earned his MBA from The George Washington University School of Business, where he teaches as an adjunct lecturer.
Producer
Robert Krueger
Robert is an Executive Director for The Communications Board, an organization with the mission of providing high-quality professional development for every communicator in every location. He is also the Global Lead for Partnership Communications at Gensler, the world’s largest architecture and design firm. Prior to his current role, he performed executive and CEO communications for Gensler, and was the senior director of public relations and social media at the Urban Land Institute. He obtained an MA in Communications and an MA in History from George Mason University. He did his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia. In addition, Robert has taught communications at universities including George Mason University, West Virginia University, and the University of Florida. Robert currently serves as Immediate-Past President for the Public Relations Society of America’s National Capital Chapter (PRSA-NCC) -- the nonprofit’s largest chapter.

What is Chief Influencer?

Chief Influencer is a podcast that explores how today’s successful leaders inspire and influence others to make an impact in the world. They aren’t just Chief Executives, they’re “Chief Influencers.” We interview a range of leaders and uncover how they build authentic connections - both inside their organizations and beyond. Your next breakthrough idea may come from a Chief Influencer facing similar challenges in a completely different sector.