LESSON 3 · Build a Reputation That Precedes You
Proof Beats Branding
A polished personal brand without evidence is empty marketing. Proof — tangible results, public work, and third-party validation — is what actually builds trust. Let the artifact carry the brand: a well-titled doc beats any self-introduction post.

Stop worrying about your brand. Accumulate receipts that speak for themselves. Volunteer for cross-functional projects that put your work in front of decision-makers outside your team — proof builds reputation when the right people see it land.