There are two ways of thinking about being visible in the workplace. One is that “I work really hard and my management knows that I do a good job so I don’t need any more visibility.” The other is that “I work hard and do a good job, but I also recognize that getting in front of my management is important to my success.”
I was someone who believed in the first example above. Being visible felt like “playing politics” and I didn’t want to do it. I rationalized that visibility wasn’t important and I had always been promoted before without doing it, so why do it now? However, I learned that once you reach a certain level in the organization, that lack of visibility will hold you back and you won’t continue to progress.
I can look back now and see that my thinking was just an excuse. I was operating from fear and a belief that you had to brag about yourself to be visible. That isn’t true. I have learned a lot about the importance of visibility to have career success. It doesn’t have to be hard and it can be created in a way that is authentic to you and your style.
The important things to think about first are why do you want visibility and what outcome do you want to gain? A few examples might be to demonstrate that you can take on more responsibility, position yourself for a promotion, or to be ready to lead a team. Do you think you are being visible enough in your career to reach your goals? If you aren’t, are you willing to step out of your comfort zone and try it? This is your opportunity to let your management and others see what you can do. What small step could you take today that will let others see your value?