Be Known

Make yourself known to your firm leaders. This is an obvious suggestion that you already know. But are you taking action on it? It’s so easy to get caught in the daily grind that you forget about the importance of connecting with those who lead your firm.

At the highest levels of your career opportunity, it’s no longer just about your capabilities to do great work, mentor staff and satisfy clients. At this level, it includes whether your leaders know, like and trust you. This factor may not be in the list of “what it takes to be a partner,” but I assure you, it is a significant consideration.

Take Action

So don’t wait for them to reach out to get to know you or rely on happenstance that you will cross paths someday. Instead, assume responsibility for them getting to know you.

• Take the initiative to set up one-on-ones just to learn more about them. This can be more difficult because of multiple offices and people working remotely instead of in person, but very worth the effort.
• Be visible in meetings and discussions. With so many meetings and gatherings occurring virtually, it should be easier to be visible. Speak up early in the meeting. Respond when questions are asked or opinions are sought. Ask relevant, thoughtful questions. Make your presence obvious.
• Periodically, follow up your connection with a leader with an email to make an additional observation, express appreciation or inquire about something.

When I coach candidates in the Partner-Ready Program, one of the first questions I ask is how well the firm’s leaders know them personally, not just by name or reputation. In our follow up discussions, we often include a report on who they connected with, how it went and what to do next to maintain momentum.

Start Now

While it is never too late to take action, you are best served to begin early in your career to make yourself known. It doesn’t matter whether you are in your first year or knocking on the door of partnership, it’s always the right time to make yourself known.

By demonstrating forward-looking actions to engage them, you show yourself as one who they would like to include in firm leadership. This week, make an effort to demonstrate initiative, drive and commitment. Making yourself known will never hurt you.