10 Tips for Being Visible as a Woman in Business

There’s no doubt about it, in today’s competitive business world, visibility is crucial for career advancement and professional success. As women of colour, we face unique challenges, but there are strategic ways to enhance our presence and make our voices heard. Here are ten tips, to help you stand out and thrive in your professional journey.

1. Leverage Social Media

Take a cue from Patricia Bright, a successful YouTuber and entrepreneur who uses her platforms to share insights, career advice, and personal achievements. Use LinkedIn to post about your latest projects, share industry news on Twitter, and showcase your professional life on Instagram.

Consistency is key—post regularly and engage with your audience.

2. Build Your Personal Brand

Think about Oprah Winfrey’s brand, which is synonymous with authenticity, empowerment, and excellence. Define what you stand for, what makes you unique, and how you want to be perceived. You can communicate this through your online profiles, business cards, and interactions. Your brand should reflect your values and career and or business aspirations.

3. Network Strategically

Attend events like the monthly PRECIOUS Nights at the British Library or the annual Black British Entrepreneurs Conference. You can also join organisations like the Black Young Professionals Network or your local Chamber of Commerce, to connect with peers and mentors. Networking isn’t just about collecting business cards; it’s about building meaningful relationships.

4. Public Speaking and Panels

Look for opportunities to speak at events like the Women of the World (WOW) Festival, where women like June Sarpong and Candice Brathwaite have shared their stories and insights. If public speaking makes you nervous, start small by volunteering to present at team meetings or local business groups. Public speaking can significantly boost your visibility and credibility and often lead to incredible opportunities!

5. Publish Content

Follow in the footsteps of women like Yomi Adegoke, co-author of Slay In Your Lane: The Black Girl Bible. She has built a platform through her writing and contributions to major publications. Research how you can start to write articles for your industry publications, start a blog, or contribute to platforms like Medium. Sharing your expertise through written content can position you as a thought leader.

6. Collaborate and Partner

Collaborate with other professionals. Look for opportunities to co-author articles, work on joint ventures, or partner in business initiatives. Collaboration can extend your reach and introduce you to new networks, locally, nationally and globally.

7. Seek and Provide Mentorship

Find mentors who can provide guidance and support, just like how Karen Blackett, OBE, sought mentorship throughout her career in advertising. Also, give back by mentoring others, sharing your knowledge, and helping to pave the way for the next generation. Mentorship is mutually beneficial and strengthens professional bonds.

8. Engage in Continuous Learning

Stay ahead in your field by pursuing additional certifications or attending workshops. For instance, register for courses through platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning. Continuous learning not only keeps your skills sharp but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth.

9. Showcase Achievements

Don’t be shy about sharing your successes. If you’ve completed a significant project, received an award, or achieved a career milestone, share it with your network. Celebrating your successes inspires others and highlights your capabilities.

10. Support Other Black Women

Promote the work of other Black women and women of colour, much like how Afua Hirsch uses her platform to uplift other Black voices in media and literature. Celebrate their successes, collaborate on projects, and create opportunities for mutual support. Building a community of support amplifies everyone’s visibility and fosters a sense of solidarity.

Implementing these strategies can help to enhance your visibility, build a robust professional presence, and navigate the business world with confidence and resilience. Remember, your unique perspective and contributions are invaluable and needed, it’s time to share them with the world.