Why is it important to be noticed in a bustling, distracted work environment? Some people prefer to work anonymously and “fly under the radar” to avoid scrutiny and go about their work life in perceived peace. But where does that get you? Nowhere! If you want to move up, get promoted, enjoy new challenges, grow, and have a fulfilled work experience, then your best bet is to build connections. Just showing up every day isn’t enough. You have to have a face, a voice, and a presence.
Put your face to your name. If you work virtually or don’t have much personal contact with some or all of your colleagues get a professional photo of yourself and get it on your company intranet, your LinkedIn profile – anywhere your colleagues will see it. This way they have a face with the name and you are instantly more “real” and more memorable.
You have a voice, of course, but what are you saying with it? When communicating with coworkers and superiors, speak in a way that is effective and also interesting. Even in your written communications, use language that is as colorful as appropriate, and don’t be afraid to let your personality come through. Have a story to tell when you meet someone in the hallway or cafeteria. Make sure that not every interaction you have with another is about you. Ask about them, and make a connection.
Put down the phone. Smartphones are incredible tools to manage our work and home lives. But when they get in the way of real human interaction with the person right in front of you, they are not a tool for but rather a hindrance to effective communication. You know how annoying and even rude it can seem when you are trying to have a conversation with someone and they can’t pull their eyes away from the screen. Don’t make this mistake. In order to have memorable connections with people, you need to have some simple things such as eye contact and genuine facial expressions in response to what they are saying. Put the phone down for these moments.
How are your communication skills? Do people frequently misunderstand what you mean in written word? Do you have an accent or speak quickly so that it is challenging for others to keep pace with you? If so, make it a point to work on these methods of communication so you can be easily heard and understood. This way your words will not be overlooked or overshadowed and you can have the impact that you desire.
Finding common ground will get you everywhere. Don’t forget that the easiest way to make a sincere connection with another person, no matter who they are, is to find common ground. Being able to discuss topics of interest will help you make a professional connection more personal. Make sure to create positive discussions that stand out to your coworkers. If your discussions are intriguing and genuine, you won’t be forgotten.
Get noticed by being yourself and making real connections with those around you. Being top of mind and “on the radar” is always of value in the workplace. You will surely be remembered the next time they are looking for a fourth to round out the new client golf outing or when they are creating the short list of those up for the next promotion.
If you are looking to stand out and find a rewarding workplace in which to thrive, contact the experts at Helpmates Staffing. We have more than 40 years of experience in coaching employees to long-term career success!
