• Visibility – Sometimes not having left any impression is a bad impression. Even if you are an introvert, find ways to make yourself known. Don’t force it or you won’t be convincing. But if, for example, you are great with numbers but don’t like to the limelight, offer to be the analyst for a project or finance person for a committee or project. Attend conferences and if you are senior and credible enough, offer to moderate or serve on a panel to let people see how knowledgeable you are on your subject matter.

• Messaging – Words are powerful, having said that, actions can speak louder than words. Make sure you are conveying the right messages about the 3-C’s – credibility, capability and commitment. Prepare your personal branding statement, your elevator pitch – whatever you want to call it – and be consistent with everyone you meet. Walk the talk and demonstrate – consistently that you are who you say you are. No hyperbole, no false modesty.

• Thought Leadership – Capturing your ideas in a paper, article or presentation can go a long way to establish or re-establish your reputation. Make sure the ideas are your ideas or at least attribute them properly. You don’t want a reputation of being a poacher or worst yet, plagiarizer.

• Humility – Some people have developed a reputation for being arrogant, users, steamrollers, generally difficult to work with or being just plain mean. Even those people can find religion and change their ways. Make amends with people and ask for forgiveness. Learn the power of establishing personal connections; offer to assist, show your vulnerability and compassion before you need to ask for help.