Written by: Stephen Krempl, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In the high-stakes game of corporate life, the hand you're dealt may be important, but the way you play your cards is what truly defines your success. Among those cards, two stand out as the aces in your hand: Visibility and Memorability. Let's discuss why these qualities are vital and how to cultivate them.
In our training program, we drive home two core principles and the phrases that encapsulate them, they are:
“If you're not visible, you're invisible” and “If you're not memorable, you're forgettable”
It seems obvious, right? Yet, the implications are profound. The reality is that being great at what you do isn't enough. As Seth Godin articulates in his work on "remarkability," you have to be noticed, and not just seen, but remembered.
Why both visibility and memorability matter
Choosing between visibility and memorability is like asking which wing of an airplane is more important. It is a trick question. You need both to soar. Both attributes are your key to unlocking doors to opportunities you may never even know existed.
Visibility makes you a candidate; memorability makes you the top choice. In the words of Sheryl Sandberg, you need to "lean in" not just to tasks and responsibilities but also into the spotlight, capturing both the eyes and minds of decision-makers.
The unspoken assumption: You're already good at what you do
Now, let's be clear. I'm assuming you deliver results and are knowledgeable and competent in your field. Your skills and work ethic are the entry ticket. But as Daniel Pink would argue, mastery alone doesn't trigger career progression; you also need autonomy and purpose to drive you forward.
The blindspot: Great work isn't enough
You could be the smartest person in the room, but you risk being overlooked if you're not actively visible and making a memorable impact. Adam Grant's research in "Originals" shows that standing out requires the courage to present your ideas, even when they challenge the status quo. It's not merely about doing great work; it's about being seen doing it.
Why you might not be standing out
The corporate world is a crowded stage with many high performers. So, what makes you unique? As Simon Sinek would say, it's not just about the 'What' or the 'How,' but the 'Why.' Your 'Why'—your unique perspective and values—can make you memorable.
How to level up: Combining visibility and memorability
Be Intentional in Meetings: Don't just attend, contribute. Show up prepared and make points that resonate.
Network Purposefully: Engage with people outside of your immediate circle. As Robert Cialdini's principles of influence suggest, likability and reciprocity can go a long way.
Showcase Your Strengths: Know what you're good at and make it known. Marcus Buckingham emphasizes leveraging your strengths to become an indispensable team asset."
Be Role Authentic: See my last article on this. Know the behaviors and be mindful of what's required for the next level.
Engage in Lifelong Learning: A commitment to constant improvement makes you a more attractive asset to any organization, and as Malcolm Gladwell proposes, reaching that tipping point of expertise is but one element of being unforgettable.
Stephen Krempl, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Stephen Krempl is an international trainer, global keynote speaker, bestselling author, and corporate communications coach. He has worked with thousands of leaders in over 30+ countries. His career spans 25 years in Fortune 200 companies, Starbucks Coffee Company (CLO), Yum! Brands (VP of Yum University and Global Learning), PepsiCo Restaurants International and Motorola. He helps leaders stand out and get noticed in their corporations even in an increasingly competitive global marketplace. He has authored nine books including his latest, Positively Negative – How To Turn Negative Messages Into Positive Ones.
