I know we like to think we would be the special story; someone who will stay in their own little bubble and still win at work.
As an introvert, trust me when I say that’s my ideal situation.
Unfortunately, we all know that’s not how it works. In the real world, you have to connect and network to get noticed at work.
However, again, as an introvert, I understand that some things might be too much for us. Besides that, I am not one for manipulative strategies or kissing a$$ just to get what I want.
I’d rather we keep it classy. Hence why this article is titled, “Classy Ways to Get Noticed at Work.”
In this post, I will be showing how to do it the right way. After all, we have agreed you can’t just fold your arms and hope things fall into your lap.
So, if we are going to put some strategies in place, they might as well be right and align with our personality.
Anyway, that said, let’s look at how to get noticed at work for the right reasons.
9 Classy Ways to Get Noticed at Work
1. Do Your Work
Well, we might as well start from the very thing you were hired to do: work.
Plus, I already told you I’m not sharing anything shady here, so get ready to put in some work to become more valuable at work.
Having said that, the first thing to do if you want to get noticed, especially by upper management, is to do your work.
Yes, I know this might sound basic, but doing your job — and doing it well — is the most underrated way to shine.
So, you need to make up your mind to show up consistently, hit your deadlines, and deliver quality results.
People notice those who don’t need micromanaging or supervision, and still get things done.
If you want to get noticed, then you need to be that reliable person who makes the team better just by doing what you were hired to do.
2. Speak Up at Meetings
This is particularly hard for introverts; sometimes, you just want to disappear into a cave and do your job without disturbance.
You can check out my article on perfect jobs for introverts that may give you that leeway to work in solitude.
But generally, because we live in a loud world, you still need to learn how to put yourself out there.
You may need to attend briefings or pitching meetings or presentations with higher-ups, so you need to know how to put your best foot forward.
Therefore, you cannot afford to be a spectator at meetings; you need to see them as an opportunity to shine.
This is why you should prepare for each meeting prior.
Except for a meeting that is impromptu, always do research and read up on things that will be discussed, even when it’s something you do every day.
For example, if you are part of the marketing team, you probably already know a lot about marketing.
However, when the company wants to brief or pitch to a new client, conduct research about the client’s business, their industry, competitors and new marketing trends, even when you won’t be the one presenting.
Don’t just stroll into the meeting because you feel you won’t be presenting anyway.
You should be able to ask a thoughtful question or offer a smart suggestion. This will show you are engaged and proactive.
Plus, you don’t have to be loud or aggressive doing this; you just need to be clear and confident. The more you contribute, the more people associate your face with value.
3. Show the Right Work Attitude
It is one thing to do a good job; it is another to have the right attitude and character.
If you are loud, rude, and tardy, most companies won’t keep you just because you do a good job.
Except, of course, you are the only one in your field, which won’t always be the case.
So, while doing a good job, accompany it with positivity, professionalism, politeness, kindness, a willingness to learn, and punctuality.
Don’t be the person who is always late, who complains about everything, can’t take feedback without getting defensive, and can’t stay calm under pressure.
Trust me, a good attitude opens more doors than just talent ever could, because people remember those who bring good energy into the workplace.
Also Read: Reasons You Are Not Making Progress in Your Career
4. Support Your Direct Supervisor or Manager
Always go to work with a readiness to help your direct boss win because when your boss looks good, you look good too. Even the Bible says you have to be faithful in another man’s business to get yours.
So, focus on supporting your manager or supervisor. Offer them help when they’re swamped, deliver on tasks without needing a reminder, and try to understand their goals.
Basically, I am saying you should make their work easier. Be someone your manager can trust and rely on.
Ideally, that will make you valuable to them, and they will mention your name in the right rooms.
But even if, for some reason, they are against you, someone else will take notice and mention you as a key player in the team.
5. Upskill
Some people are very good, but they are only good at their job, in that position. That means, they would mess up if they were promoted.
Not because they want to or even have the wrong attitude, but because they won’t be able to handle the demands of the new role.
What I am saying is that if you want to move up, then you have to prepare for the stage you want. You are only going to get noticed when it is clear you do a better job than your current position.
And trust me, it shows when you are long overdue for a promotion because what you know will shine through.
So you need to prepare for opportunities before they come knocking. Pick up new tools, take online courses, read, follow up on trends and master them and attend workshops that boost your relevance.
That way, you can stand out because you show you are actively growing and eager to bring new knowledge to the table.
6. Take Ownership
Don’t just wait for instructions; take initiative and own your projects.
I know it’s not your company, but remember what we said about being faithful at someone else’s.
So, when something has been handed to you, own it like it’s yours; don’t treat it like you are doing them a favour. That’s not how a leader thinks. Think like a leader and you will be treated like one.
You know something else leaders do? They take responsibility for their actions. They don’t play the blame game if something goes wrong; rather, they own it.
And when people see that you’re responsible and solution-focused, you gain respect quickly.
It shows that you are ready for the top.
7. Network with Colleagues
I know people encourage doing your work and not relating to others.
But I don’t believe that’s the way. I don’t think it’s helpful to hide behind your desk all day, just doing your work.
You should also build relationships across departments, grab lunch with teammates, and say hi in the hallway.
Now, I’m not saying you have to be besties with everybody; that can be disastrous. Although I’m not saying you can’t make good friends at work, life is not that black and white.
All I am saying is you don’t have to force friendships. If you find a genuine one, by all means, nurture and enjoy it.
Still, this is more about being nice to people, saying hi to someone, smiling at them, striking up a conversation during lunch, and genuinely caring.
People always remember how you made them feel more than what you give them. And when people know and like you, they’re more likely to speak positively about you.
Plus, internal connections open doors to opportunities that skill alone can’t. You never know how the lady you smiled at during lunch or the man you helped out with the copier would help you sometime in the future.
So, don’t rule out work relationships; nurture them.
8. Help Out
Again, I am not asking you to kiss a$$ or be nosy, but to help out genuinely.
For instance, you can offer a hand when you see a new colleague settling in or someone buried under deadlines.
Even just helping someone find their way around a new software counts.
It’s just extending a hand, really.
Let me add that you shouldn’t overextend yourself to the point where you can’t say no to any request; that’s exhausting, and people naturally abuse it. You should also not expect praise every time you help.
Just genuinely be a helpful person; it is a good feeling and makes way for you.
Also Read: How to Stop Being a People Pleaser
9. Dress the Part
Lastly, as cliche as it might sound, you are addressed how you are dressed. So, you need to dress well.
Of course, this depends on your industry. For instance, people in finance dress differently from people in tech. So, this is not a campaign to champion a particular style across the board.
Basically, I’m just letting you know that people will take you seriously if you dress the part.
It shows that you take your role seriously and are ready for the next stage.
Plus, it’s also a great way to manifest, almost like you are preparing for the next stage you are aiming for.
Also Read: How to Apply the Law of Attraction for Success
Again, I won’t say specifically what that looks like, as your industry probably determines it. But just make sure you choose clothes that fit well, are appropriate for your workplace, and give off confident, capable vibes.
You don’t have to spend a fortune, but looking put-together can definitely get you the right kind of attention.
Leave a Reply