In a recent LinkedIn post, Jason Feifer highlights the strategic approach of NFL player Kyle Van Noy to personal branding on the platform. Feifer uses Van Noy’s proactive efforts as a case study for how individuals, regardless of their current professional status, can take control of their public perception and reach specific audiences.
Feifer introduces the situation by explaining Van Noy’s unique perspective: “Kyle Van Noy told me that most NFL players don’t think about LinkedIn. On social media, they’re just defined by being an athlete.” This sets the stage for Feifer’s core argument about the missed opportunities for professional self-definition.
Taking Control of Perception Beyond the Obvious Role
Feifer emphasizes that Van Noy’s desire to go beyond his athletic identity is not an isolated incident but a widely applicable principle. “This isn’t just an athlete thing,” Feifer writes, expanding on the idea that most professionals allow their job titles or company affiliations to define them, rather than actively shaping how they are perceived.
“Most people don’t actively shape perception. They let their jobs or companies do the talking. But that’s a huge missed opportunity.”
According to Feifer, this passive approach represents a significant disadvantage. He argues that individuals must take ownership of defining their value proposition. As Feifer points out, even significant achievements, like winning Super Bowls, do not automatically translate into desired perceptions or opportunities without deliberate effort.
Creating a Signal for Opportunities
Feifer elaborates on the necessity of creating a clear signal for others to follow. He suggests that opportunities are not passively received but actively cultivated. In Feifer’s view, the key lies in understanding one’s audience and desired message.
“Nobody will just *come* to you — even if you’ve won two Super Bowls. You must create a signal for others to follow.”
The core of Feifer’s advice, as shared from Van Noy’s example, is the importance of intentionality on platforms like LinkedIn. He advocates for a consistent and focused approach to communication.
The Essential Question for LinkedIn Strategy
Feifer distills the strategic process into a fundamental question that all LinkedIn users should ask themselves. “When you’re on LinkedIn, always ask yourself: ‘Who do I want to reach, and what do I want them to know about me?'” he poses.
“Then show them the answer — over and over.”
This iterative process of defining the target audience and the key message, then consistently reinforcing it through content and engagement, is what Feifer identifies as the path to effective personal branding and achieving professional goals. He concludes by offering a free course to help individuals master these principles on LinkedIn.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Jason Feifer on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on June 17, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →