In today’s digital world, it is expected that if you are serious about your career and being a credible professional, you spend time investing in your personal /executive brand and online presence.

But I still come across accomplished executives who are invisible in their industry.

They have a limited online presence and networks and an underwhelming industry profile.

Often it is fear and/or comfort that keeps them from building their brand and claiming their space as a leader.

But by remaining a hidden gem, you are unintentionally sabotaging your career.

You see, people get promoted to senior executive roles, not because they’re technically competent – that’s a given – but because they are considered leaders in their field.

So it’s important that your stakeholders, such as your colleagues, your boss, suppliers, and people in your network, understand your value and how you are different from others who do what you do.

As you show up and demonstrate your expertise consistently, you start to build your brand and visibility and increase your influence.

When you have influence at work and in your industry, you can make a bigger impact and get important things done more easily.

As a result, you get more recognition, get promoted, and are paid more.

When you are invisible, no one sees the great work you do.

And when you are not known in your industry, it makes it very hard for others to advocate for you and recommend you for new opportunities.

Being invisible is a key reason why careers stall.