Your Brand Never Sleeps

I recently came across an article that highlighted how some younger employees expect praise and promotions simply for showing up and completing their assigned tasks. The reality is that promotions and recognition don’t typically come from merely meeting the minimum; promotions and recognition come when you demonstrate initiative, growth, and go above and beyond. When you display leadership potential.

For example, I recently spoke with a banker who is mentoring several team members. He confirmed the same pattern: employees who do only what is required don’t understand why they’re not moving up. In contrast, one of his mentees wanted to know how to stand out; he even asked for recommendations on business books. My colleague suggested that when he started reading the books, to bring them to work and keep them on his desk, where leadership could see them. This way, his goal to learn more and be better would be visible to leadership. That simple act sent a message: I’m learning, I’m growing, I’m ready for more. The second team member refused to do more, and as a result, they were passed over for a promotion, so they left. The bare minimum isn’t enough if you want to be promoted and grow with the company.

In my book, The Style Advantage: I Say What HR Can’t, I share, “Your brand never sleeps.” It’s not just your LinkedIn photo or how you show up in a client meeting. It’s the impression you create every time you walk into the office, log onto a virtual call, or run out to meet a potential client or grab coffee. Studies show it takes less than seven seconds for people to form an opinion about you. That opinion often determines whether they see you as credible, competent, and promotable. Seven seconds is all it takes for them to decide if they want to know, like, trust, and work with you.

So ask yourself: Are you showing up on brand? Are you signaling that you’re invested in growth, not just maintaining the status quo?

Tip: Audit your brand presence. Do you have a brand? How are you showing up every day?

Action Step: As you walk out the door to work, snap a picture of yourself and make a note of how you feel in your outfit.

At the end of the week, review your pictures and notes. Are you showing up in a way that aligns with where you want to go and who you aspire to be? If the answer is no, you may need to assess and adjust your wardrobe. You may be an expert, but you’re not presenting yourself as one, and as a result, you are blending in or being overlooked. Small shifts make a big difference in how others perceive your potential. What can you add to help yourself stand out?

Meeting expectations is good, but exceeding them is what sets you apart. In a sea of competent professionals, those who get promoted are the ones who stand out, are top of mind, have intentionally cultivated their brand, consistently show up, and as a result are recognized.

👉 Is it time to build a wardrobe that aligns with your goals? Let’s talk about how to create your signature style so you stand out authentically, on brand, and with confidence. Book a Style Inspo Session HERE.