Visibility — one of the keys to success
By WILLIAM HODGES
Can you imagine what kind of world it would be if everyone hid their light under a bushel? It would indeed be very dark. From birth, most of us are taught to be humble and to stay in our place—wherever that might be. In our society, it is difficult to stand up and say, “Hey, look at me.” Yet, most really successful people have learned to do it. The difference is that they do it in a manner that is socially acceptable.
Name- and face-recognition can be worth, on the high end, millions of dollars, as in the case of movie stars. But you don’t have to be a movie star to make big money from recognition. People don’t buy books by celebrities because they expect earth-shattering information; they are buying them because they recognize the authors’ names. I could name several speakers who draw large crowds, not because they are good speakers, but rather because they have in some way established name recognition. The audience comes to hear them so they can go home and say, “I heard (name here) speak.” People just like to associate with celebrities.
You and I may never become national celebrities, but we can increase our name and face recognition. At work, we can hand carry the report we have completed to the boss, instead of sending it through the company mail. We can submit items of interest concerning ourselves or our area of expertise to the company newsletter for publication.
Nameplates should always be prominently displayed on our desks. Everyone should have their picture on their business (or personal) cards given to others; it will help them remember you. When I worked at NCR, there was one gentleman who is still in my memory bank; he wore a fresh flower in his lapel every morning. Out of the many hundreds of people in our building, everyone knew him.
Take the time not only to think of ways to make your organization better, but also put those ideas in writing and submit them through the proper channels. Be willing to step up and do the hard job when everyone else has backed away, but make sure everyone knows you are doing it.
More generally, you might adopt a special way of dressing. Johnny Cash got notoriety by wearing black. George Burns’ trademark was a big cigar. For corporate seminars and other occasions where casual attire is appropriate, I wear shirts with my company logo and my name. You can order a special vanity license plate for your car that displays your name or initials. Most local newspapers will not only accept, but encourage residents of the community to submit items of interest such as conferences you have attended or training courses you have completed.
A name badge is helpful if you are going to be attending meetings where people do not know you; it can set you apart from the crowd and make your name easier to remember. You might even have a generic name tag made for such occasions.
Socially acceptable ways to say, “Hey, look at me,” are to surround yourself with symbols of success—an expensive car, house or unique jewelry; but be careful, do not spend beyond your means.
You can stay under the bushel if you want, but I think you will find it cramped and stifling. Let your light shine if you want to be a success.
William Hodges is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer and syndicated columnist. Visit billhodges.com.