With more firms adopting a hybrid working approach, it can be hard for those starting out in their careers to build connections and boost their personal brand within the workplace.
With several employees now often coming in for three days a week or less, and more and more meetings and events being held virtually, it’s important to make sure you stay as visible as you can as you build your personal profile at work and build your career. Here are my five top tips for boosting your visibility.
Network, network, network
Having worked in data for quite a few years now, I’ve had the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life. I know networking doesn’t come naturally to everyone and that it can be daunting to walk into a room full of senior figures. I’ve also found it difficult at times, but it really is invaluable, and the more you do it the more you learn to enjoy it!
I attend data industry events including talks and conferences when I can, and am constantly reading, researching, or speaking with others about new tools or what’s new. At Ki, a colleague and I run a biweekly data call where we spotlight cool projects or tools in the data world and within Ki. The goal is to spark curiosity and get people talking! Everyone starts somewhere, and even if it feels uncomfortable at first, try to meet as many people as you can. Networking always seems scarier than it is.
Seek guidance from mentors or trusted colleagues
Go to colleagues who you can trust, and you know have your back.
I mentor a few junior colleagues myself, and the growth I’ve seen in them has been incredibly rewarding. For example, I recently took one mentee to a data engineering event, and by the end of the evening she was confidently speaking with several senior data leaders – it really helped her confidence and boosted her curiosity. She is now taking more interest in reading about topics she’s come across while networking with people.
You never know what you’ll gain from seeking guidance. And when you’re able to do so, remember to pull out a seat at the table for others too! Creating space for colleagues to learn, grow, and be heard not only helps their own personal development, but also strengthens the whole company.
Show up, whether in person or online.
With hybrid work now the norm, it’s important to be proactive as we navigate the post-pandemic work environment.
I’m a big advocate of work–life balance, and hybrid working has given flexibility that’s incredibly valuable. But it’s not a replacement for the benefits of seeing people face to face. Finding ways to remain present and visible—whether online or in person—is key.
I also like scheduling virtual or in-person coffee chats with new starters, so they always have a friendly face or point of contact even if we never work directly together. I love making time for regular catch-ups with colleagues, sometimes just a quick 10-minute Slack huddle. Those informal “water cooler” chats can still be done virtually, and they make a real difference in keeping people connected and keeping you visible!
For me, it’s not about being in the office five days a week—it’s about making the effort to be visible and engaged, wherever you are.
Identify your unique value-add
I think that identifying your unique value-add to a company can boost both your confidence and your visibility. For me, I wear my heart on my sleeve. In the past I saw that as a weakness, but over time I’ve come to see it as a strength. It allows me to be empathetic, to have more open and meaningful conversations, and to bring my authentic self to work.
Your value-add is what sets you apart—and in a hybrid workplace, it’s what helps you avoid blending into the background! Embrace what makes you different.
Get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable
Frequently ask for feedback from a range of colleagues. There may be times where you’ll have to have difficult conversations. Sometimes it’s hard to hear, and sometimes it’s hard to give, but you’re never going to grow if you don’t ask for feedback. Get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable; give lots of feedback as well as receiving it.
Working across insurance and data is quite niche compared to other sectors, but we often experience the same challenges when it comes to boosting our visibility in a hybrid workplace. However with the above steps, you can work on these consistently to both expand your presence and unlock new opportunities!
