In today's fast-paced world, the race to achieve and showcase success has never been more intense. Young professionals eager to make their mark often find themselves caught in the whirlwind of wanting to be seen, recognized, and celebrated. But in the quest for exposure, there is a critical step that is often overlooked: laying the foundation.

Imagine this majestic oak tree.

It's towering presence, expansive branches, and the shade it offers are all results of something invisible to the eye: its roots. Long before a tree stands tall, it was a small seed. That seed didn't immediately burst into the sunlight. Instead, it spends time below the surface, developing deep, resilient roots. This hidden phase is what anchors the tree, fuels its future growth, and enables it to weather storms.

In many ways, our journey, whether personal or professional, is the same. The early stages may feel slow, invisible, or even unrewarding. But this is where the real strength is built. The habits, values, and skills you develop now are your roots. Without them, any growth above ground may be fleeting. But with them, you are preparing for not just a successful journey ahead but also a sustainable one. This is what I refer to as Grounded Growth – often marked by learning, skill-building, personal development, and may not be glamorous, but vital. It is the stage where you build the resilience, expertise, and networks that will support your future success.

Unfortunately, in the pursuit of quick exposure, many young professionals try to skip this step. They inflate their job titles, exaggerate their accomplishments, or apply for roles they are not yet equipped to handle, all in the name of being seen. The risk here is significant: without the necessary foundation, they may find themselves exposed.

I have seen this scenario more than once: a young professional who lands a senior management role, not necessarily because they are ready, but because they can “sell” themselves well. They know how to speak the language, project confidence, and impress on paper and in interviews. Once in the role, the cracks begin to show, the weight of the role becomes overwhelming, the person falls short on meeting the demands and expectations, ultimately being exposed as unprepared. This isn’t about doubting ambition, it’s about timing. Visibility without readiness can set people up to fail. Growth takes time; one of my previous line managers used to say, "Growth hurts; It is a gym, not a spa" - Miranda Naiman

Building a career is not just about being seen; it is about being ready to be seen. It is about ensuring that when the spotlight is on you, you have the substance to back it up. This means taking the time to develop your skills, gain experience, and grow your roots deep and strong.

So, to the young professionals out there, we need to take out time. Focus on building a strong foundation. Learn the ropes, even if it means starting from the bottom. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint. When you focus on growth rather than immediate exposure, you are setting yourself up for long-term success. Remember, exposure should be the result of your readiness, not the goal that drives you to skip essential steps.

Here are four steps to help young professionals focus on building a strong foundation before seeking exposure:

1. Start with Mastery: Before seeking visibility, invest in mastering your craft. Take the time to build the necessary skills and expertise in your field. This will give you confidence and credibility when opportunities arise.
2. Embrace Humble Beginnings: Don’t shy away from entry-level roles or tasks. These experiences are where you gain the foundational knowledge and practical insights that will serve you in higher-level positions later.
3. Prioritize Learning Over Titles: Instead of prematurely chasing impressive titles or senior roles, focus on environments that challenge you to learn and grow. The depth of experience you gain will set you apart when the time is right.
4. Seek Feedback and Mentorship: Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can provide honest feedback. This will help you identify areas where you need to grow, ensuring you’re truly ready when the spotlight comes.

These steps will help ensure that when you seek exposure, you do so from a position of strength and readiness.

Exposure is valuable, but only when it’s earned through diligent preparation and foundational growth. Otherwise, you risk being exposed. Be patient with your journey, and let your roots grow deep. The shoots will follow, and when they do, they will be supported by a foundation that ensures they stand tall and strong, no matter the challenges ahead. This process cannot be rushed or skipped; it’s essential for sustainable career growth and development.