Chief Influencer

This episode of Chief Influencer features Eric Pan, the President and CEO of the Investment Company Institute (ICI). The conversation explores Eric's background, including his roles with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, his tenure as a law professor, and his transition to leading ICI. 

Eric emphasizes how effective communication is crucial in addressing diverse audiences and achieving industry goals. Just because you aren’t an expert in a certain industry, doesn’t mean that you can’t understand certain topics. In addition, Eric shares how clear and respectful messaging tailored to different groups ensures that information is accessible and relevant. 

He highlights the role social media plays as a two-way communication tool, enabling organizations to not only share information but also gather valuable feedback from their audience. 

He shared that balancing factual data with emotional storytelling enhances engagement and makes complex topics more relatable. He emphasized that as technology continually evolves, adapting communication strategies to incorporate new tools and platforms is essential for staying current. Additionally, he noted that understanding and addressing stakeholder perspectives allows for more effective advocacy and aligns industry efforts with the needs and concerns of various groups.

Takeaways:
  • Be Genuine: When communicating complex information, be genuine in your enthusiasm and interest. Your passion can make others care about the topic too.
  • Respect Different Viewpoints: Recognize that everyone has a valid perspective. Understanding and respecting those views can help in effectively communicating your message.
  • Use Both Data and Stories: Combine logical data-driven points with emotional, human-interest stories. This dual approach can help you connect with a wider audience.
  • Adapt Across Platforms: Different platforms attract different audiences. Being active on various social media channels like LinkedIn can help leaders reach a diverse set of stakeholders.
  • Leverage Social Media Authentically: Treat your social media presence as an authentic voice for your opinions and initiatives. Use it to articulate key viewpoints and engage directly with your audience.
  • Two-Way Communication: Influence is not just about pushing your message out but also about listening to feedback. Utilize platforms that allow for this two-way interaction.
  • Empower Your Team: See social media as an organizational tool, not just an individual one. Encourage other members of your team to also have a voice and contribute to the collective message.

Quote of the Show:
  • “Just like fund investing is the democratization of finance, social media is the democratization of communication.” 

Links:

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
Amanda Goyette
Amanda loves bringing people's visions to life through podcasting!
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.