In a recent LinkedIn post, Liz Ryan discusses the importance of authenticity on professional networking platforms, particularly LinkedIn. Ryan highlights a common struggle many professionals face: the pressure to conform to a rigid, often impersonal definition of “professionalism” at the expense of their true selves.
The “Corporate Pretzel” Phenomenon
Ryan shares a powerful anecdote from a user of her LinkedIn Impact Audit tool, who revealed, “Liz, I had no idea how much of myself I’d twisted into a corporate pretzel to seem ‘professional.’” This sentiment underscores a core problem Ryan addresses: the tendency for individuals to contort their online personas to fit perceived industry standards, leading to a disconnect between their professional image and their genuine identity.
“Liz, I had no idea how much of myself I’d twisted into a corporate pretzel to seem ‘professional.’”
According to Ryan, this self-imposed distortion is precisely why she developed the LinkedIn Impact Audit. She argues that professional profiles should serve as an authentic reflection of an individual, rather than a generic, templated representation.
Unwinding and Reclaiming Your Voice
Ryan emphasizes that the goal of a strong LinkedIn presence should be to showcase the real person behind the professional achievements. She states that her audit tool is designed to help users:
- Unwind from the pressure to conform.
- Reclaim their authentic voice.
- Present the genuine human behind the bullet points.
As Liz Ryan points out, the digital landscape often encourages a superficial display of success, which can mask the unique skills and personality that truly make a professional valuable. Her work aims to counter this by encouraging a more human-centered approach to personal branding.
“Your LinkedIn presence should feel like you, not like a generic template wearing a blazer.”
In Ryan’s view, this shift towards authenticity is not just about personal comfort but is also a strategic advantage. When professionals present a genuine and relatable image, they are more likely to connect with others on a deeper level, fostering more meaningful professional relationships and opportunities. She believes that the pressure to appear overly polished can actually hinder genuine connection.
The Human Element in Professional Branding
Ryan’s insights suggest that the most effective professional branding comes from embracing one’s unique qualities and experiences. By encouraging users to “unwind” and “reclaim their voice,” she advocates for a strategy where authenticity becomes a key differentiator. This approach allows individuals to move beyond the often-stifling “corporate pretzel” and present a profile that is both professional and personally resonant.
“The LinkedIn Impact Audit helps you unwind, reclaim your voice, and show people the real human behind the bullet points.”
Ultimately, Liz Ryan’s message, as shared on LinkedIn, serves as a call to action for professionals to evaluate their online presence and consider whether it truly represents who they are. By prioritizing authenticity, individuals can build a more impactful and sustainable professional brand that attracts the right opportunities and connections.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Liz Ryan on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on November 20, 2025 | View original post on LinkedIn →