I have a confession, I do love a good definition. I will be in mid-conversation with a friend and upon hearing a particular word, I have to look it up in the dictionary. Oftentimes this is not because I do not
know what a word means, but because I enjoy getting crystal clarity on the precise meaning. When speaking about visibility we are talking about the ‘state of being able to see or be seen.’ In this context, let’s look at the importance of why as professionals, we need to be seen, in the online space, representing our businesses and organisations.
The business world has always operated on local, national and international levels, however, with the increasing use of technology access to global communities has increased considerably. Many of us have attended online events in different countries and time zones, and also worked alongside international colleagues and clients, without leaving the comfort of our home offices. In 2020 I published my second book ‘119 Tips on Public Speaking’ co-written with a friend and colleague based in Europe. Adam and I met during a virtual mastermind for business owners and decided to work on this project together, although to date, we have never actually met in person. Remaining visible in the online space can create connections and open doors for future collaborations.
When we have an online presence whether that is creating videos, quotes, sharing pictures of you speaking, we can let others know who we are and what we do. Information seems to come at us, every day, all day and we can easily forget one post that someone shared 3 weeks ago. It is the same for our contacts, connections and audiences, they may not remember what we do if we are not posting, and also posting regularly. We want to think about staying visible and becoming memorable ready for opportunities that come our way, because we are sharing content consistently, which will look different for each of us.
There are numerous benefits to intentionally showing up in the online space and remaining visible. You are able to share your expertise, stories that demonstrate why you are qualified to be an authority figure in your field. In addition, your professional values, beliefs and ethics are also shared, whether directly or indirectly, and for some colleagues that may be a deciding factor in them making contact. Lastly as we become more comfortable with putting ourselves in uncomfortable spaces, we create room for personal and professional development. Often seen in hindsight, when you realise there are things you are doing now that you may not have had the confidence or skills to, months or years ago.
As a coach challenging clients is part of my daily practice, and to end this month’s blog I would love to
leave you with a challenge. Over the next six weeks create a plan for how you can be more visible, showing up online and more often, adding value to the business community. You never know who has been waiting to work with a professional such as yourself, but at the moment they do not know you exist. Have a great week ahead!
Francesca McDowall, April 2024