Project Failure Files: Being Too Humble
In Episode 76 of the Project Failure Files weekly webcast, our focus was “Hiding in Plain Sight,” in which Sharon and I discuss how some of the best performers vanish into the background because they assume results speak for themselves. In fast-moving orgs, visibility often favors loud voices and flashy projects, not quiet consistency. That tension between humility and being seen causes many leaders to miss where value is truly created.
Silence breeds skewed narratives: “squeaky wheels” collect credit, while quiet contributors stall out or leave. The fix isn’t ego or exaggeration; it’s context. Share outcomes, lessons learned, and the real impact on customers and teams. Better yet, build systems—peer recognition, regular show-and-tells, transparent status rhythms—so visibility isn’t a personality contest.
As we discuss in the episode, managers play a pivotal role: spotlight unsung contributors, calibrate recognition beyond sales/“hero” moments, and normalize lightweight progress signals. Individuals should “defend the brand” with outcome-focused updates, ask how their work is perceived, and volunteer to present post-mortems or brown-bags. Visibility done well lifts careers, strengthens teams, and improves decisions.
Enjoy the episode!
Be sure to tune in next Monday, February 9th at 9am Pacific for the latest episode in our weekly series as we discuss how having too many direct reports can become counter-productive. Hope you can join us on our NEW YouTube channel (please subscribe!), or find us on LinkedIn.
