Visibility vs. Ability: Why Women Leaders Need to Be Seen
We’ve all heard the saying, ‘*Out of sight, out of mind,*’ and it cannot be more relevant in the workplace, especially for women aspiring to leadership roles. Women shy away from talking about ourselves and our achievements because we equate it with self-bragging, and that doesn’t feel like the right thing to do. Women believe that they work hard and do their best; therefore, their work shall speak for itself. However, this mindset can often be limiting.
While ability is crucial, visibility gets those abilities acknowledged by others. You may be an incredible professional with many things to offer. But, if you are hiding, your talents will go unnoticed. Ability without visibility will leave you stuck. Simply being known and valued can significantly impact your career. The right visibility can make a difference, here’s how:
Challenging Stereotypes
Leadership roles have traditionally been associated with masculine traits, which can make it harder for women to be recognized as leaders. By being visible, women leaders can set examples and help challenge and dismantle stereotypes about what leadership should look like.
Creating Opportunities
Opportunities don’t always come knocking; sometimes, you have to make them happen. Visibility creates a platform where women leaders can be considered for promotions, key projects, and other avenues for professional growth. Visibility puts women on the radar of decision-makers, making it easier for them to climb the corporate ladder.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Visible women leaders serve as powerful role models. Their presence and success inspire other women and girls to aspire to leadership roles, helping to create a more diverse and inclusive leadership landscape. Visibility shows that it’s possible. Along with personal success, this creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone.
Combating Bias
Visibility is a powerful tool for dealing with unconscious bias and gender stereotypes in the workplace. When women’s contributions are visible, it becomes harder to overlook or undervalue their work. This is particularly important in environments where gender bias exists, as it helps to level the playing field and ensures that women’s talents are not dismissed.
Building Influence
Visibility amplifies a leader’s voice, allowing them to influence decision-making processes and shape the direction of their organization or industry. With visibility comes influence, and with influence comes the ability to enact change. For women leaders, this means being able to advocate for policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and having a say in the issues that matter most.
Visibility isn’t just about being in the spotlight. It does not have to be superficial or flashy and can be created in a way that is authentic to you. You can start with some simple ways to start building your confidence and getting comfortable with visibility such as presenting in a meeting, lead a volunteer group, or write for the company newsletter. Choose activities that challenge you but align with your style and strengths.
Without enough visibility, even the most capable women leaders may find their achievements and potential overlooked. So, more than having the right skills; it’s about ensuring those skills are seen, appreciated, and leveraged for success.
How can you increase your visibility in your current role, and what steps can you take to ensure that your contributions are recognized and valued?
Download our free guide on building a personal brand for women leaders to boost your visibility.
