Show up strategically without shouting or over-performing
There’s a story I’ve heard more than once from professionals of color. In fact, I’ve experienced it myself through out my career, no matter what country I lived in.
You work hard. You meet deadlines. You exceed expectations. You’re the go-to person when things get tough. But when promotions are handed out—or high-visibility projects come along—you’re overlooked. Again. And the feedback you get? “You’re doing great, just keep it up.”
It’s frustrating. And it’s confusing. Because isn’t this what we were taught? That hard work speaks for itself?
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: It doesn’t. At least, not in the way we wish it would.
This isn’t about arrogance or performative ambition. It’s about what I call the quiet competence trap.
Many POC professionals fall into it especially those raised to believe that humility is a virtue and excellence will be recognized on its own. But in workplaces shaped by legacy systems, unconscious bias, and visibility politics, being the quiet backbone of a team isn’t always rewarded.
That’s where visibility comes in.
And no, I don’t mean self-promotion in the “look at me!” kind of way.
Visibility is a learned skill, not a personality trait.
It’s not about being loud. Rather, it’s about being strategic in how you show up, speak up, and shape perception.
Here are a few subtle, low-stress ways to start building it:
1️⃣ Narrate your work (before it’s done).
Don’t wait for the final deliverable to speak for itself. Share progress updates in team meetings. Drop a note to your manager about a challenge you’re solving. Let people see the process, not just the result.
2️⃣ Advocate for others, and let them advocate for you.
Amplify the contributions of colleagues during meetings. This builds trust, and they’ll often return the favor. Visibility is a team sport.
3️⃣ Ask to present your work.
Even if someone else wrote the deck, if you led the strategy or analysis, volunteer to walk the team through it. Own the room. Practice presence. It’s one of the fastest ways to shift perception.
This isn’t about being someone you’re not. It’s about ensuring your impact isn’t invisible.
And if you’re ready to go deeper, I’ve built a simple, practical toolkit to help. It’s made for professionals who are ready to grow their influence without over-performing or burning out.
I’ll leave you with a question to journal this week: If you’re doing excellent work, what’s holding you back from making it known?
Until next time…
Mal
Founder, The Ideas Accelerator
Helping you grow your career with strategic insight and smarter tools.