If you’ve ever wondered why hard workers and high achievers still get passed over for opportunities at work, this podcast episode is a must-listen.
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Why Hard Work Alone Isn’t Enough
Lorraine explains that one of the biggest myths a professional buys into is that great work should speak for itself. But in today’s hybrid, competitive world, it’s not just what you do. It’s who sees it.
“Presence is both how and where you are seen,” says Lorraine.
She shares a personal example from her time at LinkedIn. Despite leading high-impact projects (even relocating to Hong Kong!), she hit a wall when trying to move from mid-level to senior. Why? She hadn’t learned how to advocate for herself or make her work visible in the right rooms.
Key takeaway: Visibility and strategy matter just as much as execution.
The “Epic” Career Brand Framework
To help others define and showcase their professional identity, Lorraine created the EPIC Career Brand Framework, which breaks personal branding down into four essential parts:
- E – Experiences: The stories, achievements, and moments that shaped your career journey.
- P – Personality: What makes you you—your energy, your quirks, and how you show up.
- I – Identity: Your core values, cultural background, and what you stand for.
- C – Community: How others perceive you—your internal and external reputation.
“If your community doesn’t see you the way you see yourself, there’s a misalignment.”
Whether you’re introverted or extroverted, early career or seasoned, EPIC helps you create a brand that aligns with your true strengths—and makes sure others see it too.
Making It Practical: Where to Start Building Your Career Brand
While LinkedIn is a key platform, Lorraine emphasizes that personal branding isn’t limited to social media. She recommends starting with your Unique and Powerful Introduction (UPI)—a strategic elevator pitch based on your EPIC elements.
Instead of saying: “Hi, I’m Lorraine. I’m an editor.”
Say: “Hi, I’m Lorraine. I’ve led editorial teams at top tech companies for over a decade, and I’m passionate about creating content that educates and engages audiences.”
This small change can transform a forgettable moment into an opportunity to connect, impress, and stand out.
Pro tip: Practice your UPI for networking events, meetings, even Zoom calls.
But Won’t Posting Make Me Look Like I’m Job Hunting?
A common fear among professionals is that posting on LinkedIn or being active externally might signal they’re looking to leave their current role. Lorraine debunks that:
“If you’re building your brand right, you’re not just opening external doors—you’re getting tapped internally for new opportunities, too.”
She shared a powerful story about being asked to represent her company at a media roundtable because coworkers saw her thought leadership posts on LinkedIn. That visibility turned into trust and opportunity.
To ease nerves, she suggests:
- Communicate your intentions with your manager
- Frame your online presence as part of company advocacy
- Focus on value, not self-promotion
From Corporate to Solopreneur: A Career Brand in Action
Lorraine didn’t set out to be an entrepreneur. But when she was laid off, the career brand she’d quietly built gave her options—and confidence.
“I never envisioned running my own business. But I had already built something on the side—speaking, writing, consulting. When the layoff happened, I saw it as a signal to try.”
Today, she runs a thriving business, speaks at universities and companies, and just launched her first book.
Lessons from Lorraine’s entrepreneurial leap:
- Know if you thrive without structure
- Build relationships early and often—your network is your net worth
- Get comfortable with uncertainty—success isn’t always linear
What’s in Unforgettable Presence?
Lorraine’s book, Unforgettable Presence, dives deeper into everything shared in the interview—and more.
You’ll learn:
- How to stand out in digital spaces (think: emails, Slack, virtual meetings)
- Strategies to boost influence without being “too much”
- How to create an aligned, confident, and visible professional presence—online and off
Final Thoughts
Lorraine’s story is proof that thoughtful, intentional personal branding can open doors—whether you’re aiming for that next promotion or pivoting into something new.
If you take nothing else from this conversation, remember this:
Your work deserves to be seen. Don’t wait for others to notice—show up, speak up, and build an unforgettable presence.
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Interested in bringing me (Dr. Gertrude Nonterah) to speak at your university or organization? I speak on career branding, intentional career design, and careers in scientific communications. Learn more at TheBoldPhD.com/speaking.