In this month’s newsletter, I am shining the spotlight on articulating your Value and increasing your visibility in senior leadership. As individuals move into the mid and senior levels of their careers, the dynamics change. It’s not just about doing a good job anymore, it’s about articulating your value and increasing your visibility among the senior leadership.
Here are five ways to achieve that:
Craft a Strong Personal Brand
Personal branding is the narrative that represents your professional identity. It’s the amalgamation of your experiences, values, and skills. It is what you are known for, and you need to be the one to decide what you want to be known for. Start by identifying your strengths and unique selling proposition (USP). How do you differentiate yourself from others? Then, be consistent in communicating this narrative, whether it’s in meetings, or during casual interactions.
Engage in Thought Leadership
Thought leadership is about positioning yourself as an expert in your field. Share insights, write articles, or give presentations in your area of expertise. Engaging in forums and panels relevant to your industry can also showcase your expertise to a wider audience, including senior leadership.
Seek High-Visibility Projects
These are the projects that have a significant impact on the business and are often closely watched by top management. Volunteer or request to be a part of such initiatives. While these projects may be challenging, succeeding in them can be the quickest way to get noticed.
Network Intentionally
Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. It’s about building meaningful relationships. Set clear goals for your networking activities. Do you want to be mentored by a senior leader? Are you seeking insights into another department? Engage in conversations with a clear intention. Remember, quality over quantity. A few strong relationships with key individuals can be more beneficial than dozens of superficial ones.
Provide Solutions
It’s easy to point out problems. What senior leaders value more are individuals who not only identify issues but also come up with actionable solutions. Whenever you come across a challenge, think critically about possible solutions. Even if your solutions aren’t always implemented, the fact that you’re proactive in your approach will certainly be noticed by leadership.
In conclusion, visibility in senior leadership doesn’t come with just time, it requires strategic action. While your work quality and consistency remain foundational, remember that it’s also about communicating your value and positioning yourself in places where others can see you demonstrating this value. Advocate for yourself, engage proactively, and remember that often it’s not just about what you know, but also who knows you and what they know about you.