Getting people to know who you are and what you can do takes time. I have found that the best way to stand out is to use your ideas and talents to help others. Throughout my career, when opportunities arose that would allow me to do something I knew I would love to experience or to learn, I have been quick to express an interest. I have found many ways to get involved—like contributing to different projects, mentoring young career women, or advising team members—that are impactful and create positive change. Anyone can do this, and we all should. With time, your network and peers will begin to recognize what you can offer, because they will have either experienced your skills first hand, or heard about your capabilities from others you have worked with.
To really succeed, you need to step out of your comfort zone. When you “play it safe,” you’re not challenging yourself to overcome fears, learn something new, build, or innovate. One of the hardest challenges I had to overcome was my own fear of failing. It’s why the advice I most often give other women is not to look at challenges as roadblocks. They are there for you to conquer.
