It Is Not Enough to Be Good at Your Job

Do you ever feel like you work so much harder than your colleagues, but you are not getting the credit you deserve?  That’s a common feeling.  You can blame it on a bad manager not noticing the work you do.  More likely, it is a personal brand management issue.  Just as a company controls its brand, you must control your brand.  Follow these brand-building tips and enjoy the positive impact on your career!

Get Caught

Every smart politician knows that if you are going to do something good, get noticed for it so you can maximize the benefit of your good deed.  Get caught doing a good job.  In other words, don’t be shy about letting your manager know the extra hours you are working and the support you are giving your teammates. When you receive praise for your work, don’t be self-deprecating and say, “Ah shucks. It was nothing.”  Instead say, “Thanks.  I worked hard on that project.”   Just make sure that you don’t sound like a talking résumé or a martyr.

Track Your Accomplishments 

A year from now you may have trouble remembering the details of the big consolidation project that you led and how many thousands of dollars you saved your company.  Make note of these accomplishments so you can mention them in your next annual performance review or in a future job interview. This list also comes in handy when you are updating your résumé.

Rub Elbows

Interact with decision makers and those in power so that you are front-of-mind when it is time for selecting someone for a high-profile assignment.  Nobody likes someone who ”kisses-up,” so be careful not to be exceedingly solicitous or officious.  However, being friendly at office gatherings and participating in group meetings is a great way to make a positive impression. 

Volunteer

Seek out opportunities to volunteer for corporate committees, task forces, and charity events.  These are great settings to showcase your organization, interpersonal, leadership, and problem solving skills in a place where management can take notice.

Performing well in your job is just the basic requirement for success.  If you want to increase your value, you must build your brand.  Brands are not built on bragging. Create a powerful brand by showing the great things you have accomplished.  Follow the above tips and you won’t be the wallflower that is not recognized for excellence.  You’ll be the one in demand for the next big promotion!