We’ve all heard the negative connotations of a brownnoser [this term comes from the notion that a subservient person kisses the backside of the person with whom he is seeking favor].  But aside from fully ingratiating yourself to another, there are times that warrant sticking out and making your presence known to your boss or your top client, going above and beyond the norm.  Here are some of those times for both corporate employees and entrepreneurs…

1.  You’ve been invisible.  It doesn’t take overly compliant behavior towards your boss or client to get visible, or certainly humiliating yourself, but it means you have to stretch some to  be noticeable.  Be friendly, interested, enthusiastic and available.  At all times be authentic, but you may feel inauthentic because you’re outside your comfort zone.  Be the first at a meeting and stay behind to offer final comments if it appears they’re warranted. Volunteer for only what you can handle, but don’t wait for others to grab the best opportunities, seek them out and try to position yourself for them before they’re dolled out.  Demonstrate willingness without being a nuisance.

Meet clients for lunch or coffee and have beneficial information for them at the ready to not only entice them to come, but so they leave satisfied.  In referring to how you could help them, try, “May I propose a few suggestions I’ve thought you might find helpful?”  Asking is always better than assuming you have permission to tell and now they’re primed better to listen too.  I don’t recommend to my clients that they try to buy their way in, but a birthday and holiday remembered by a card are one simple way to consistently stay noticed and it’s more personal than just your blog or information newsletter.

2.  You are ready to take on more challenges and responsiblity.  If you don’t make this known, it could be assumed you’re too busy or that the certain project isn’t up your alley.  Set a periodic meeting with your boss to discuss your progress on projects and share your new ideas, or see if your boss is willing to talk about what’s coming down the pike and listen to your input.  Be clear what your objective is…a raise, title change, or just new challenging work.  Make sure he/she knows you are at the ready to take on more and be sure you are too, by knowing just what it’ll take. 

Entrepreneurs, contact former clients to see what they’re working on and if there’s any way your services can assist them.  Don’t be a pest by leaving more than one voice message, especially ones asking for return calls.  Be persistent to reach your client yourself and have some consistency in how and when you stay in touch.

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