Self is the system.Identity emerges from it.Brand compounds it.Visibility moves through it.
Self.
something to discover
→ a tool of discovery. → The operating system.
Identity.
an expectation
→ a journey.
Brand.
perception management
→ perspective sharing.
Visibility.
a goal
→ a channel.
— Pillar I · The shift
Self.
§ 01 / 03
— from
something to discover.
— to
a tool of discovery. → The operating system.
The Self is not something to discover. It is a tool of discovery — and, with reflection, the operating system.
— The evidence
2 sources
Organizational identity research argues that how people understand who they are, were, and want to become is "key to understanding" what happens in and around organizations.
University of BathIdentities and identity work in organizationsSelf-determination theory research shows work context affects basic needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness — which in turn shape motivation, performance, and well-being.
Nature Reviews PsychologySelf-Determination Theory at work
— Pillar II · The shift
Identity.
§ 02 / 03
— from
an expectation.
— to
a journey.
Identity is not found on a map. It emerges through the choices that move you.
— The evidence
3 sources
Alvesson and Willmott describe "identity regulation" as a form of organizational control, where employees are encouraged to develop self-images aligned with managerial objectives.
Lund UniversityIdentity regulation as organizational controlResearch on leader concern and authentic self-expression found self-concept/job fit relates positively to organizational commitment and negatively to turnover intention.
Cambridge University PressJournal of Management & OrganizationA meta-analysis on psychological safety examined its relationship to task performance and organizational citizenship behaviors.
Old Dominion UniversityPsychological Safety meta-analysis
— Pillar III · The shift
Brand.
§ 03 / 03
— from
perception management.
— to
perspective sharing.
Most brands ask to be seen. Brands with integrity reveal what they see.
— The evidence
3 sources
A systematic review frames personal branding as a growing career and organizational activity; later research found it relates to greater career satisfaction through perceived employability.
Frontiers in PsychologyPersonal Branding: Systematic ReviewResearch on employee social media competence found it can increase online brand citizenship behavior and reduce feelings of psychological contract violation.
White Rose Research OnlineEmployer brand & employee social mediaEdelman and LinkedIn's B2B report found thought leadership influences decision-makers and C-suite buyers beyond simple brand awareness.
Edelman & LinkedIn2024 B2B Thought Leadership Impact Report
— The throughline
Visibility.
§ Throughline
— from
a goal.
— to
a channel.
Visibility is the result of clear vision.
— The Point
Visibility is the throughline.
Self as system. Identity as journey. Brand as perspective.