Be there. However hard you've worked on something, if you're absent when the results are shared, you're unlikely to get full credit. When that crucial meeting is organised, push to attend and present on what you contributed.
Set objectives. Revisit them with your manager every quarter. Nobody will deny you credit when your smashed goals are right there in black and white.
Outwit saboteurs. If people try to take credit for your work, publicly ask them detailed questions about the project. Show them up, while appearing to have only the best intentions.
Be visible. All business leaders have pet projects. Find them and get on board. Why settle for credit from colleagues for a clean contacts database when you could get thanks from the board for your new contact strategy?
Keep on moving. Change jobs or roles every couple of years. Being new gives you an instant spotlight and employers will know that they'll have to recognise and reward you to keep you.
Find an ally. Identify a colleague you trust (and want to help) and be each other's eyes and ears: protect each other from saboteurs and talk each other up to those that matter most.
Go global. It's not just colleagues and clients who should know what you're contributing. Spread the word to useful contacts and potential employers, too. Set up a website and LinkedIn profile, write an industry blog, and network like mad.
Keep it coming. Always be humble when receiving credit. Nobody's going to praise a braggart more than once.
- The Mind Gym: Relationships is published by Little, Brown at £12.99 - www.themindgym.com/books.
