Making youself "Visible"

There is this interesting talk you hear sometimes in your grad college about "increasing your visibility". I am pretty sure for all of us it is just an interesting talk, no one gets a hang of what it really is all about. It takes you some time either in your job or post-grad to realise how important this concept really is and how some of your classmates used it so well to succeed in your grad college. The earlier you understand this concept, the easier it is for you in your life. It doesn't come natural to some people and others who master this concept benefit at their cost.

This might seem like some cheap tactics to achieve personal gains but in reality it is a part of the culture and as much a reality as office politics. Thus it is more of a skill which is a part of an individual's personality. The real professional life is governed by many such personality driven factors and not just by knowledge. A good visibility, rapport and network is as much an asset as knowledge, maybe more. It does not mean that if you lack in any of these factors then its your bad luck, it is rather a shortcoming.

Obviously not everything is fair in this society and their are people who would do 20% but want 100% visibility. It is in this situation that it becomes unfair because you are usurping somebody else's hardwork. But the harsh reality is that it does happen and quite often. In a competitive environment, you are only as good you project yourself. How you are perceived by the important people in the organisation is all that matters because that's all they'll know. No body has the time or the capacity these days to scout for the hidden gems. You are only as good as your image in their eyes.

People will continue debating about the righteousness of the concept but their is no debate about the role it plays in your success. The one's cribbing the most would be the lot which lacks the ability. For them these are the sour grapes that can't be reached. But it doesn't mean blatant boasting of one's ability will work. Only the one's who back their solid efforts with right visibility succeed. Work is paramount but the importance of making your work visible can't be undermined at all.