Ever felt like you’re doing the work, leading the projects, and driving the results… but you’re still waiting for that official title or recognition to catch up? You’re not alone.
In today’s world, especially in fast-paced cities like Lagos where I live, hard work alone isn’t enough. People don’t rise to leadership because they’re the best-kept secret in the organization or industry; they rise because people can see their value, feel their impact, and trust their voice.
This is why I strongly believe:
Career visibility and influence is the new leadership.
So, What Exactly Is Career Visibility?
Career visibility means being seen, heard, and valued for the work you do even beyond your job title and your place of employment.
It’s when:
- Your name comes up in rooms you’re not physically present in.
- Colleagues ask for your opinion because they recognize your expertise.
- You influence decisions not because of your position, but because of your value.
Why Visibility is Your Secret Weapon
Visibility isn’t about being the loudest person in the room or a constant presence on social media. It’s about strategically showcasing your value so that your influence grows, even before your title does.
When you are visible:
- Your ideas gain traction, and you become the go-to person for your area of expertise.
- Opportunities find you. People recommend you for projects, speaking engagements, and roles that align with your aspirations.
- You build a network of advocates who believe in your potential, not just your current job description.
Why Visibility Matters, Especially Before the Title
The truth is, titles don’t create leaders. Influence does. And influence is built long before the promotion comes.
In my experience, I’ve seen too many brilliant people stay invisible. Not because they’re incapable, but because they’ve been taught to "stay humble and wait.” But humility is not invisibility. You can be humble and still be seen.
But How Do I Actually Do This?
I get it. The thought of "putting yourself out there" can feel daunting, especially when you're already stretched thin. It’s a common concern I hear from the incredible women and men I have consulted for, coached and worked with. The journey often involves:
- Clarifying Your Unique Value: What problems do you solve uniquely well? What is your professional point of view? You can’t communicate your value if you haven’t defined it for yourself.
- Finding Your Voice and Platform: This isn't about being someone you're not. It's about finding the authentic way you share ideas, whether it’s writing a thoughtful internal memo, speaking up in a meeting, or sharing insights on LinkedIn.
- Building a Sustainable Strategy: Visibility isn’t a one-off event. It’s a habit. We create a plan that fits into your busy life, without burning you out.
This is where the magic of coaching comes in. A coach acts as your strategic partner, providing clarity, accountability, and tailored strategy you need to launch your visibility plan with confidence whilst holding your hand.
Your Influence Shouldn't Be Confined to Your Job Description
Imagine building a reputation that transcends your day job. Imagine being known not just as a "Marketing Manager," but as "the go-to expert on brand storytelling in XYZ Country or continent." This is the power of personal branding and visibility.
It allows you to deliver purpose and make an impact that goes beyond your 9-to-5, creating a legacy of influence.
How to Start Building Influence Without a Title
Here are realistic steps that have worked for me and for professionals I’ve coached, especially those in middle management aiming for senior leadership:
Know Your Value and Own It
Before you can be visible, you must be clear on what you bring to the table.
- What problems do you solve?
- What results have you contributed to?
- How do people feel after working with you?
This is your personal brand foundation.
Start Speaking Up, Strategically
You don’t have to be the loudest voice, but your voice must be present.
- Share ideas during meetings.
- Send thoughtful follow-up emails summarizing decisions or suggesting improvements.
- Volunteer for cross-functional projects.
Build Relationships, Not Just a Reputation
Influence is not built in isolation.
- Connect with peers and decision-makers.
- Ask questions, offer help, and follow up.
- Don’t wait for networking events, create your own small circles of influence.
Document & Share Your Wins
This is not bragging, this is evidence.
- Keep a "Visibility Folder” of your achievements.
- Share milestones on platforms like LinkedIn.
- Be consistent. Influence loves consistency.
Ready to Build Your Influence Strategy?
If you’re a mid-level professional in Lagos, navigating the hustle, full of ambition, but feeling a bit invisible, know that you don’t have to figure it out alone. The path to senior leadership is no longer just about what you do, but who sees you do it.
Book your free 15-minute discovery call for a Visibility Clarity Session on the Mentaa Platform where we’ll:
- Identify why you’re currently invisible (even if you're talented).
- Map out where you want to be seen and heard.
- Give you your first actionable step toward becoming the kind of leader people remember.
Click here to book your free session on Mentaa
Let me leave you with this thought:
Leadership is no longer about waiting for someone to hand you a title.
It’s about showing up with purpose, using your voice, and being seen for the value you already carry.
Your work is not the problem. Your visibility is.
Let’s change that, together.
