This week's action:
The "Stakeholder Sync." Identify one person in your organization (not your direct manager) who has influence over your career path. This week, send them a three-sentence update on a specific win or a project you are currently leading. No "ask," no request for a meeting, just visibility.
Why this matters:
Internal PR isn't "sleazy"—it’s strategic. Most professionals treat their reputation like a passive byproduct of their labor. High-impact leaders treat it like a product they are actively marketing.
By reaching out to a stakeholder with a brief, non-transactional update, you are doing two things: you’re staying top-of-mind, and you’re framing your work in your own words before the "year-end" rumors even start. You are building "social capital" now so that when a promotion or a new opportunity arises in six months, your name is already the obvious choice.
How to write the "No-Ask" Update:
The Hook: "Hi [Name], I was thinking about our conversation regarding [Topic] and wanted to share a quick milestone..."
The Data: "We just cleared [Specific Milestone] on the [Project Name], which is going to [Save Time/Increase Revenue/Reduce Risk] by [X%]."
The Exit: "No need to reply, just wanted to keep you in the loop on our progress as we kick off the year. Hope you're having a great week!"
The key is the "No-ask." By removing the request for their time, you remove the friction. You aren't giving them work; you're giving them a reason to be impressed by yours.
