In today’s competitive professional landscape, one crucial aspect of career success often gets neglected: building a strong profile. But achieving this is more complex than it may initially seem. It’s not just about doing great work; it’s about making sure the right people know about it.
So, what does it really mean to have a strong profile?
A strong profile means being known for your expertise and being the go-to person when others need help. You are recognised as a reliable, professional individual with high integrity, and your reputation for delivering results precedes you. Colleagues seek you out because you engage effectively, take ownership, and consistently show initiative. Most importantly, you demonstrate a willingness to learn, adapt, and grow continuously.
At the core of this is visibility. In the Elevate programme, we use the EPIC Formula® – Exposure, Performance, Impact, and Consciousness – to help future female leaders achieve their career goals. Historically, women have been told they don’t do enough to make their work visible. However, through the EPIC Career Self-Assessment, participants often discover that they are doing well with exposure, but it’s not enough just to be seen. The key is to be known for the right reasons.
Raising your profile means people must not only be aware of your expertise, but they must also trust you as the solution to their problems. This is not about self-promotion for the sake of it; it’s about positioning yourself as the person others turn to when they need a specific kind of expertise. It means consistently performing at a high level and actively engaging so others know that you’re still the expert they can rely on. When done right, your profile becomes a powerful asset, creating new opportunities for career growth.
How do you know if you’re getting it right?
Here are key signs that people recognise and trust your expertise:
- Colleagues Seek Your Advice: People come to you regularly for guidance or to solve complex problems, confident in your ability to deliver solutions.
- You’re Assigned Key Projects: Management or team leads consistently delegate important tasks that align with your specialised skills, a clear indication that they trust your abilities.
- Invited to Share Knowledge: You are frequently asked to lead training sessions, give presentations, or mentor others, showing that your expertise is acknowledged and respected.
- Positive Feedback and Recognition: You receive consistent praise from peers, supervisors, or clients, reinforcing your position as a valued expert in your field.
- Word of Mouth: Others recommend you for specific tasks or mention your name when expertise is needed, confirming that your reputation is spreading.
- They Support or Defend You Publicly: Perhaps the strongest signal of trust, others stand by you or speak up on your behalf during disagreements or challenging moments. This demonstrates their unwavering belief in your abilities.
The last point is the ultimate goal. When people trust your expertise enough to defend or support you publicly, it speaks volumes about the depth of that relationship. It’s not just about believing in your technical skills; it’s about backing you when it truly matters – whether in meetings, during conflicts, or when your reputation is on the line. When someone is willing to put their own credibility on the line to stand behind you, it’s one of the most powerful affirmations you can receive.
At this level of trust, it’s no longer just about what you bring to the table – it’s about who you are. You’ve built strong, dependable relationships that solidify your role as an indispensable part of the team. When people know your expertise and consistently turn to you, you’ve successfully raised your profile and positioned yourself as a key player in your organisation.
If this resonates with you, have a look at our upcoming sessions to see how we can help to unlock – and elevate – the potential in your workplaces.
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