I sat down with Mike Klein to talk about what it really takes to lead through communication in a world that’s anything but stable. This isn’t just about writing clean copy or managing internal newsletters—it’s about power, politics, and personal presence.

Strategic communicators are being called to step up, not blend in. In this episode, we get into the real work of influence: shaping narratives, building credibility, navigating political landmines, and becoming the kind of leader people listen to.

Key Takeaways:

• Communication isn’t a soft skill—it’s a leadership skill.
• Political climate shapes how and what we communicate—internally and externally.
• Personal branding isn’t optional anymore—your name is your leverage.
• Strategic communicators are power players, not support staff.
• Your network is your influence amplifier—introductions build authority.
• Legacy in comms isn’t about tenure—it’s about impact.

Soundbite:

“If you can’t communicate, you can’t lead.”

“Credibility is the ultimate currency in communication.”

“Strategic communicators are the translators of chaos.”

“We are all brands now. The only question is: are you managing yours?”

“Real influence is built behind the scenes, through connection and consistency.”

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: Why this conversation matters

04:50 – The shift from messaging to strategy

08:34 – Chaos, communication, and control

12:34 – Navigating the political climate at work

16:32 – What organizations get wrong about comms

19:02 – Personal branding as a leadership tool

22:04 – Strategic communication as career leverage

25:56 – Building your presence and perception

28:50 – The hidden value of introductions

33:16 – Leadership, legacy, and the future of comms

37:35 – Final thoughts: owning your influence

Guest Bio: Mike Klein

Mike Klein is a globally recognized expert in strategic and internal communication. With over 20 years of experience leading comms for global giants like Shell and Maersk, he’s the founder of #WeLeadComms and a vocal advocate for elevating the role of communicators in complex organizations. Based in Reykjavík, Mike is known for challenging the status quo and shaping the future of influence from the inside out.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mklein818/

Website: https://changingtheterms.com/

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