S8: E11

How to Gain Visibility and Get Promoted Without Burning Out

In this episode, Felicia tackles a common career challenge faced by many Black women in corporate spaces: being told to “be more visible” despite excellent performance. Drawing from a listener letter from a frustrated yet ambitious manager who has been passed over for promotions, Felicia breaks down the feedback, explains what visibility really means, and provides actionable steps for getting recognized in your organization without burning out.

Key Takeaways in this Episode:

1. Understand Your Company’s Power Dynamics: Start by observing how people behave in meetings—who holds influence, what motivates them, and how decisions are made. In this episode, Felicia shares key questions you can ask to identify those with real decision-making power in your organization.
2. Clarify What Visibility Really Means: When told to “be more visible,” don’t just guess—ask for specific examples of what successful visibility looks like. Felicia explains how to open this conversation with your boss to ensure alignment.
3. Build Relationships Strategically: Focus on building connections with influential people in your company. Align your work with their priorities, and learn how to frame your conversations to gain their support. Felicia explores how to make these connections in an authentic way.
4. Leverage Your HR Business Partner: Approach HR with a career growth mindset, not as a complainer. Find out how promotions really happen behind the scenes by asking the right questions. Felicia dives into the strategies that help you get HR on your side.
5. Shape Your Narrative with 360-Degree Feedback: Collect feedback from peers and leaders to understand how you’re perceived. Use this insight to consciously shape your personal brand at work. Listen to the episode for examples of phrases you can use to drive your narrative.

Additionally, Patreon members will have access to a objectives setting guide to help them in their career journey. Join our Patreon for access here: https://www.patreon.com/trillmbashow

Get Transferable Skills Checklist and Value Proposition Worksheet HERE

Listener Letters: If you have a situation that we can all learn from, email us at ask@trillmba.com.  We will not use real names.  Put Listener Letter in the subject line to let us know we can read your letter on the show.

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Editing and Sound Design by Chris Mann of Podshaper