BecomingGolden

In today’s legal world, talent alone is not enough. Over the years, I have learned that if you want to grow, to lead, and to create real impact, you must be visible, intentional, and deliberate about how you position yourself. It is no longer enough to simply be good at your job, people need to know what you do, how well you do it, and what value you bring.

On April 3rd, 2025, I shared these insights during a Zoom mentorship session hosted by Zubedah Namugenyi , under the theme “Ready to Stand Out in the Legal Field? Secrets to Visibility & Positioning.” I reflected on my journey as a Principal Legal Officer at the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), and on the practical steps that continue to shape my professional presence.

I emphasized a principle that guides me daily: you are your own CEO. Personal branding is not a mask or a performance, it is simply the alignment between your work, your growth, and how you show up in the world. If a particular area of law excites you, speak about it boldly. Write about it. Share your thoughts. The more consistently you show up in your niche, the more naturally people begin to associate you with it.

I also challenged the common belief that hard work alone guarantees progress. Competence is important, but it is not the full story. Many people excel in their work. What distinguishes you is the visible, measurable value you bring. Ask yourself: What am I doing that sets me apart? What contribution can others see and feel?

Another key area we explored was visibility within the workplace. One of the most effective ways to stand out is to add value beyond what is expected. Support your team. Make your supervisors’ work lighter. Deliver results with excellence and speed. When you collaborate across departments, offer solutions, and make your contribution known in a professional way, your recognition grows naturally.

We also discussed the role of social media in shaping a professional identity. I shared something I have witnessed repeatedly: social media is not about your title, it is about your content. Whether you are senior or junior, your voice matters. Consistently posting or engaging with thoughtful content expands your visibility and often attracts like-minded professionals. Every comment, every shared idea, every thoughtful reflection builds your digital presence.

At the heart of the conversation was an issue many legal professionals wrestle with, imposter syndrome. I encouraged participants not to wait for a perfect moment or complete knowledge before stepping forward. You do not need to know everything to contribute; start from where you are. Growth happens as you show up, not before.

I also highlighted the importance of navigating workplace dynamics wisely. Overlooking hierarchy, mishandling authority, or ignoring organizational culture can create unnecessary setbacks. For those seeking clarity on this, I recommended the book “How Not To Advance In Your Career: Career Limiting Moves” by Ruby Engena Obote (Mrs), which offers practical insights—and its summary is available on my website, brownieebal.com.

And finally, I shared a principle that continues to anchor me: stay focused despite negativity. Not everyone will celebrate your progress, but your purpose should remain undistracted. Let your work speak. Build allies who uplift, challenge, and support you, not for gossip, but for growth.

At its core, standing out in the legal field requires clarity, consistency, and courage. Be authentic. Own your niche. Learn deeply. Speak boldly. Write with conviction. When you pour into your craft, confidence becomes a natural outcome.

Success does not happen in silence. You must show up, and sometimes, you must show up afraid.