Information Outlook, Vol. 5, No. 11, November 2001
Raising Your Profile at Work!
Effective steps to get you noticed by your boss and colleagues
The scenario frequently plays out in companies across the globe. You have been with your organization for several years now. You are considered a team player with excellent job performance, but no one really knows you exist. In meetings your boss overlooks you and your colleagues don't take your suggestions seriously. Recognition seems to always pass you by. Out of frustration, you ask: "What do I need to do to get someone in this organization to recognize my value and take notice of my skills while keeping my dignity?" This is a question that many workers ponder. How many times have you come up with a great idea or suggestion only to let it slip away because you were unable to make your pitch? Maybe it is fear of rejection or a lack of openness in your company that stopped you from taking the initiative to speak up. Identifying your problem is simple. Finding the solution is difficult, but not impossible. Here are a few effective steps that will help you raise your profile and make people take notice of you.
Become a leader
This is one of the most effective ways to raise your profile in any organization. I know, it is easier said than done, especially if you lack the charisma. However, people tend to follow those who demonstrate a strong belief or commitment for a common goal. You can easily motivate and inspire others when you lead by example. People are always looking for someone or something to rally behind if the message is clear and the goal is attainable.
Play a larger role
Take the initiative and volunteer for assignments that go beyond your normal job responsibilities. Explore opportunities that will allow you to take on some risk but also reward you for your accomplishments. Take ownership of a project from its inception to its completion. Volunteer for assignments that no one else in your organization wants. Promising good work but delivering great work will help you exceed expectations. It also does not hurt to get involved in company-wide activities that are non-work related, such as community charities.
Get published
This is another great way to display your talents. Look for ways, through print media or television, to get your organization's name in the public eye. This recognition can build your stature and get you noticed. It is also great PR for the organization and it's free. But remember that it is important to share all of your ideas and thoughts with your communications department and direct supervisors before proceeding.
Foster friendships in the workplace
You can never have enough friends, especially in the workplace. Good communication with co-workers builds trust and cohesiveness. You can get a lot of useful information or advice especially if they trust and depend on you for your knowledge and expertise.
Communicate with your boss
This one may be a little tough. Many of us have a hard time communicating with our supervisor on any level. Start to develop a rapport by discussing things such as your needs on the job, the work environment, new ideas, and suggestions. In the long run, you will discover that these talks help him or her find out more about you than any project update.
Facilitate training sessions
Schedule a few training sessions throughout the year. Use them to demonstrate your area of expertise, show off your knowledge of the organization, and explain what you do and the value you add. Entertain questions from your co-workers during these sessions. The meetings will show your worth by demonstrating your company's return on its investment.
Become a jack of all trades
A wise man once said, it is better to know a little about everything instead of knowing a lot about one thing. The time may come when you are asked to step in a job that you are not familiar with. Take advantage of every opportunity to learn about other areas in your organization. In the long run, it is better to be a well-rounded individual.
Document and share your work
This should become second nature. Keep a summary of the work you complete for your own reference and share it with your co-workers. Many of your projects may have a direct effect on their responsibilities.
You may also need to go back and take a look at something you've done in the past. Consider teaming with different departments to pool resources, which will save the company money. If you stand up, you will be counted. Whoever coined the phrase "It's better to be seen and not heard," obviously wasn't an information professional.
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