Are you the best-kept secret in your organisation? You work hard, you deliver results, but when it comes to promotions and opportunities, you're
consistently overlooked. The hard truth is: in today's crowded world, just
doing a good job is no longer enough to get ahead.

In this episode from the archive, Andy Lopata revisits a powerful
conversation with brand identity expert Jane Bayler, a veteran of the
high-stakes world of advertising. Jane reveals why being "nice" might be the very thing holding you back and how the most successful leaders learn to stand out for their difference—not just their performance.

This isn't about being the loudest person in the room. It’s a masterclass in strategic communication, personal branding, and building a reputation that makes you indispensable. Discover how to command attention, earn recognition, and finally become the go-to authority that others seek out.
Stop being a follower and start leading the pack.

Key Takeaways From This Episode

1. What is the "PIE" formula, and why does it prove that your actual job performance only accounts for 10% of your career progression?


2. Why is being a "people pleaser" the fastest way to become vanilla, bland, and ultimately invisible in your career?


3. How can you take credit for your ideas when someone else tries to claim them in a meeting, without being seen as arrogant or confrontational?


4. Is it possible to build powerful relationships if you skip the after-work drinks? (And what can a bonsai tree teach you about networking?)

Actionable Insights

1. 
   Stop Being a Generalist: Get known for being exceptional at one specific thing. Instead of presenting a confusing "basket" of all your skills, focus on a niche. This makes you the undeniable expert and the first person people think of for that specific challenge, opening the door for you to reveal your other talents later.


2. 
   Dare to Polarise (Respectfully): Stop telling people what you think they want to hear. Form a strong, well-reasoned opinion on a topic relevant to your field and be prepared to stand by it. People trust and remember those who stand for something, even if they don't always agree.


3. 
   Replace the Pint with a Personal Touch: Instead of relying on generic after-work drinks to build relationships, find a thoughtful, personalised way to show value. Share a book you know they'd love, send a relevant article, or give a small, meaningful gift. These gestures create a far more memorable and lasting connection than a hangover.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter

YouTube

Connect with Jane Bayler: Website |YouTube |

The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

Episode 147 Featuring Andy Woodfield and Jane Bayler