Change in a career can be unsettling — especially when it comes in the form of redundancy or unexpected shifts. The Visibility pillar in Beverly’ Vanterpool’s book, Build Your Table speaks directly to this, emphasising that how we respond during these times can shape not just our immediate prospects, but our long-term trajectory. It’s not enough to weather the storm quietly; remaining visible, relevant, and connected is essential to navigating transitions with resilience and purpose. After the other three pillars – Knowledge & Experience, Community and Opportunity, this one completes the table of our career.
For Stories by Career Sistas episode 7 guest Jill Docherty, business leader and mentor, redundancy was a turning point rather than an end point. She recalls the moment as both daunting and liberating, forcing her to reassess her direction and lean on her network. “Redundancy can feel deeply personal, but it’s not a reflection of your worth,” Jill shared. “The key is to keep showing up — in conversations, in your industry, in your network — so people know you’re still here and still capable.” Jill actively reached out to connections, joined industry forums, and positioned herself as a contributor in her field, which not only kept her visible but also led to new opportunities faster than she expected.
Pearl Oguchi, community builder and entrepreneur, guest on episode 8, took a different approach. When redundancy hit, she saw it as a rare window to reinvent herself entirely. “It was the first time in years I could stop and ask, ‘What do I actually want to do?’” she said. Rather than rushing into another similar role, Pearl focused on building a network rooted in shared values and mutual support. She began hosting small gatherings for professionals navigating change, creating a space where people could exchange ideas, opportunities, and encouragement. “Visibility isn’t just about putting yourself out there,” Pearl explained. “It’s also about being part of something bigger than yourself — contributing to a community so people remember you not just for what you did, but for what you gave.”
For Nima Sharma, writer and coach, who was guest on the podcast episode 10, change arrived alongside personal shifts in her life. Balancing career demands with family priorities meant reassessing what success looked like — and accepting that visibility could take different forms in different seasons. “You can’t be everywhere all the time, but you can be intentional about where you’re seen,” Nima noted. She focused her energy on platforms and spaces aligned with her evolving goals, whether that meant speaking at select events, writing thought pieces, or mentoring emerging talent. By doing so, she maintained relevance without burning out, proving that visibility doesn’t have to mean constant activity; it means strategic presence.
The common thread in Jill, Pearl, and Nima’s stories is that visibility during change is active, not passive. It’s about controlling your narrative, leaning on and contributing to your network, and seeking out platforms where your skills and voice can be recognised. The Visibility pillar reminds us that transitions — even the hardest ones — can be opportunities to redefine who we are and how we show up. As Jill put it, “Redundancy closed one chapter for me, but visibility is what helped me start the next one on my own terms.”
Episode 7: Jill Docherty
Leadership & Resilience: Navigating Career Challenges
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Episode 8: Pearl Oguchi
Resilience & Reinvention: Overcoming Career Setbacks & the Power of Community
Listen Here
Episode10: Nima Sharma
Building a Mosaic of Success: The Portfolio Career Journey
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