Executive involvement can make or break your intranet strategy. When leaders model active use, share updates, and align the platform with business goals, they turn the intranet from a passive resource into a strategic engagement hub.
Whether you're implementing a new EXP or modern intranet or reviving a legacy intranet, these 8 proven tactics will help you activate executive participation—and maximize platform value.
What is an EXP Platform?
An employee experience platform (EXP) is digital software designed to bring together tools, resources, and communication channels that help employees stay informed, connected, and productive. Unlike a traditional intranet, which mainly focuses on storing and sharing information, an EXP blends communication, collaboration, learning, recognition, and engagement into one cohesive experience.
Key features of an EXP platform often include:
- Personalized news and content feeds
- Social networking and communities
- Digital workplace apps and integrations
- Surveys, feedback, and sentiment tracking
- Employee recognition and rewards
- Analytics and insights on engagement
Leading EXP solutions, like Workvivo and Staffbase, aim to enhance both everyday work and overall well-being. They help organizations build a stronger culture, improve communication, and tie daily work to broader business goals.
An effective EXP doesn’t just distribute information—it actively shapes how employees feel about their work and their connection to the organization. That’s why executive involvement is so critical for EXP success, ensuring the platform reflects company values and drives meaningful engagement.
Read more about intranet trends
How to Get Leaders to Participate in Your Intranet and EXP Strategy
1. Add a “Leader’s Corner” to Your Intranet Homepage
A dedicated “Leader’s Corner” gives executives a consistent place to connect with the organization.
This can include:
- CEO video messages
- Monthly reflections from department heads
- Strategic updates tied to business goals
This not only boosts transparency—it positions the intranet or EXP as a central communication tool that matters.
Need more Intranet homepage ideas? Read more about intranet design trends
2. Invite Executives to Announce Intranet Campaigns and New Features
Executives play a critical role in setting the tone for new digital tools. When they publicly launch a feature, campaign, or EXP rollout, it builds legitimacy.
For example:
- Have your COO introduce a new social recognition tool
- Ask your CEO to kick off an internal innovation challenge
- Let VPs champion departmental microsites
Leadership visibility signals priority—and encourages employees to follow suit.
3. Build an Intranet Editorial Calendar for Leadership Posts
Your executives are busy—but consistent communication builds trust and engagement.
Create a lightweight content calendar with suggested themes like:
- “What I’m Learning” reflections
- Shout-outs to high-performing teams
- Commentary on company values in action
You can even provide templated prompts or ghostwriting support to make it easier for leaders to participate regularly.
4. Leverage Short Video Messages to Increase EXP Engagement
Video is one of the most effective formats for executive communication on intranet platforms.
Even 60-second selfie-style videos from leadership can:
- Boost content views and engagement
- Make leadership feel more accessible
- Increase emotional connection to company priorities
Embed videos in your intranet homepage, newsletters, or announcement banners.
5. Launch a Leadership-Led Employee Recognition Series
Recognition is one of the most powerful drivers of engagement—and when it comes from leadership, it’s even more impactful.
Create a recurring series like:
- “Executive Shout-Outs”
- “Leaders Spotlight”
- “Top Collaborators of the Month”
Use your EXP or intranet’s social and engagement tools to make recognition visible, commentable, and shareable.
6. Involve Executives in Your Intranet or EXP Content Strategy
Bring leadership into your content governance process. Invite them to quarterly planning sessions or feedback loops.
Benefits include:
- Ensuring content reflects company strategy
- Prioritizing business-critical topics
- Gaining leadership support for long-term intranet growth
This creates true alignment between your digital workplace and executive priorities.
7. Share Intranet Usage Metrics with Leadership
When engagement grows, let executives know. Celebrate the wins together, and help them recognize their influence in driving change.
- “After your video update, intranet traffic rose 23%”
- “Your campaign launch post received the most comments this quarter”
Sharing intranet metrics builds a feedback loop and keeps leadership invested in the intranet's success.
8. Connect the Intranet and EXP to Corporate Strategy
The most powerful way to earn executive buy-in? Show how the intranet and EXP reinforce core business priorities.
Examples:
- Use the platform to promote OKR alignment
- Link content to company values and vision
- Highlight how EXP tools support DEI, innovation, or employee growth
This turns your platform into more than just a tool—it becomes a strategic asset.
Leadership Drives Intranet and EXP Success
A modern intranet or employee experience platform can’t thrive without leadership support.
These 8 tips will help you move from passive leadership approval to active executive engagement—boosting adoption, building culture, and driving real business impact.
Build on Momentum with a Scalable Intranet Strategy
Once you’ve sparked executive engagement, the next step is to ensure your intranet or EXP is supported by the right structure, ownership, and long-term vision. Our Intranet Strategy services help you turn executive support into a sustainable, results-driven intranet framework that scales with your business.
Found This Helpful?
If this was helpful, check out our full intranet courses and workshops—designed to align your intranet strategy with executive engagement, user needs, and measurable business outcomes.
