What’s your corporate profile?

One of the challenges of working overseas, physically far from corporate, is that you become remote, literally. Lots of work to do in Asia, often with more impact than wherever corporate is, but if you have not profile back at HQ, you’re in jeopardy.

Had a delightful lunch today with a senior level guy who has been with a US MNC for 4 years or so, working SE Asia. In passing, he mentioned that maybe in a year or two he’d consider going back to the US, kids may be better off, and maybe do it on the coattails of the company.

“Sounds good,” I said. “How’s your network at headquarters?” Looked at me and said, “Oh, I’ve never been to corporate. No one has ever invited me—not yet, anyhow.”

“Well, you better start your visibility plan today,” I politely replied. “If you’ve never been there, how does anyone know your value there, and who are the ones who must know?” He agreed, and I suggested he get on a plane and fly back—twice before the end of the year.

An example of focusing on one’s work rather than one’s network. If you don’t toot your own horn, no one will ever hear the music. Not much more I can add..