Are you playing the shining star right?

Sanjay Arora

As children, overdoing and overreacting was an act to be mastered - it gets you results, attention and some more attention. As we grow up, although the act to stand out becomes more subtle, the need doesn't dwindle. People often replicate this at workplaces too, an environment where your performance and visibility matters more than just winning affection. This one wins your bread for you so you put your heart and soul into putting yourself out there to be noticed. Being the most visible comes with its own share of highs and lows, however, what is important is managing the right balance between being visible and stealing all the spotlight. You don't want your excitement to be misunderstood as what might seem like the voice of enthusiasm calling out "Wrong number".

Play the risky business

Some projects are glamorous, some that are unwanted by many. Are there projects that you might be able to add unsurmountable value to? Would that give you access to the leaders of the organisation? Go grab it! There is no better networking strategy than getting in touch with the leaders to get some exciting work done. And there is no better visibility than showing the impact of your work to the leaders.

Praise away

You are the hero of this story. But let's consider facts, the world still revolves around 8 billion other people. While you vouch for yourself, speaking words of appreciation for those around you puts you in the limelight as well. People remember you by the good things you talk about them and the way you make them feel, making someone smile might fetch you the return gift without having to demand it.

Chase to be the face

Be the person of contact for your team, department or even the organisation in all ways possible. The more you are seen representing the home team, the more you are known as the person of interest in the crowd. People would find you as the one to be reached out to, thereby inadvertently empowering you.

Make your voice heard

Even if it is one of those times where you cough twice before you speak and then decide not to say anything after all, cough! Make your presence felt, let people know you have an opinion about the topic of discussion. However, being fair to others and listening is important to not being branded an attention seeker.

Be a boss keeper

Build a relationship with your boss, because your recognition in the organisation begins with them. Build a relationship that would get them invested in making you grow. It would be a sweet reminder for them to put a word for you on the table when opportunity strikes.

Being visible is important as  ansd the limitations of not balancing your game might weigh heavy while preserving your reputation for the long run.

— The writer is Founder-Director, Maven