When you think of the most memorable person in your career, who comes to mind and why?
You likely cited one of two extremes: an amazing mentor everyone adored or some clueless, self-absorbed jerk who always rubbed people the wrong way.
Being truly memorable is less about you and has everything to do with how you make others feel. For better or worse, the impression you make on someone lingers far beyond your initial encounter with them, sometimes your entire career.
It’s human nature to want to spend time with those who leave us feeling uplifted, cared for, and heard, so it makes sense to be intentional about cultivating a presence that supports that desire.
Here are the six best ways to be more positively memorable in your career:
1. Be attentive
Have you ever tried to have a conversation with someone while they’re looking at their phone? How did that make you feel?
When you’re an active listener (read: eye contact required), you signal to others that you’re interested and present, and what they say matters, fostering trust and respect. And spoiler alert: that’s impossible to do when you’re multitasking.
2. Be kind
When you lead with kindness, every interaction with others leaves a lasting positive impression. Smiling at people, saying good morning, and holding the door are simple ways to express kindness. Even better? That kindness is contagious, creating a virtuous cycle of goodness.
3. Be grateful
Don’t be afraid to demonstrate your gratitude. No one ever tires of hearing positive feedback because, sadly, most people only speak up when they have something to complain about. Be the person who regularly goes out of their way to express gratitude, sends handwritten thank-you notes (a highly underrated yet impactful move in the age of technology), and offers genuine praise to everyone, from your colleagues to your barista. You’ll be remembered as someone who appreciates others.
4. Be helpful
The smallest gestures often carry the largest impact, especially when done without an expectation of reciprocity. For example, a simple introduction between contacts can forge a powerful new partnership and sharing your lessons learned, recommendations, and time-saving tools and hacks can assist others, helping your stand out in a positive way. What costs you a small amount of time can be priceless to others.
5. Be unique
Copycats and me-toos are a dime a dozen and utterly forgettable. So instead of trying to fit in, learn to stand out. You shine when you embrace and highlight what makes you different and how your uniqueness adds value and helps people. And that light will attract others to you for all the right reasons.
6. Be consistent
If you’re flaky and can’t be counted on, you’ll quickly erode trust with others. And if they can’t trust you, they’ll avoid you like the plague. Likewise, you’ll confuse people if you’re inconsistent regarding what you do and whom you help. Sadly, if you confuse them, you’ll lose them.
But, on the other hand, consistency demonstrates to others that you’re a reliable and trusted resource who won’t let them down. In a world where that’s becoming increasingly rare, your consistency will help you stand out for the positive and cause others to seek you out.
