Why Do I Need to Be Visible Anyway?

Why Do I Need to Be Visible Anyway?

Hmm, good question. You might prefer to be the svengali making the power moves behind the scenes. And many introvert leaders tend to work this role as it turns out.

However, you might find that you are missing out on certain opportunities like promotion, invitations to work on high-level teams or to join leadership boards. You might realise that you have the skills and experience to contribute meaningfully, but somehow you are constantly overlooked. And this can hurt big-time, especially when you are passed-up for people who you know are less competent than you, but better able to express themselves verbally.

So, once you have recognised that you want to be more visible, there a few things you could try:

– Try submitting your thoughts in writing: Since many introverts tend to write well, you can put your ideas in an email, which is shared before or after a meeting. You can send your manager a written summary of the key things you achieved that week or month.

– Write articles: Again, leverage on your strengths by developing thought leadership within or outside of your organisation, by writing articles for well-known websites or newspapers or by sharing on LinkedIn and tagging a few influential people.

– Make the most of smaller groups: In most work situations, many of us will work in smaller groups and then larger teams. In the smaller groups, where you might be more comfortable in, share and contribute as meaningfully as you can.

Over time, word will trickle through the organisation about the great contributions you are making. And the knowledge that you are doing good work that is appreciated can also boost your confidence in sharing in bigger teams and on larger platforms.