Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: 101 Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers

In this chapter, Frankel covers Mistakes 61 to 78, focusing on how women brand and market themselves in the workplace. Frankel emphasizes that career success is not just about hard work but also about visibility, self-promotion, and strategic positioning. Many women assume their efforts will naturally be recognized, but without actively shaping their professional image, they often miss out on leadership opportunities.

One of the key issues women face is failing to define their personal brand. Without a clear articulation of what sets them apart, they struggle to stand out in competitive work environments. This lack of clarity extends to how they introduce themselves, as many provide vague or unmemorable responses that fail to highlight their impact. Similarly, women often downplay their roles or contributions, diminishing their own professional credibility. Instead of confidently presenting their expertise, they take a passive approach, assuming that their work should speak for itself.

Additionally, Frankel highlights the importance of positioning oneself as a valuable resource. Women frequently overlook the consultative nature of their work, not realizing that advising, problem-solving, and relationship-building are marketable skills. Another subtle but significant mistake is using only a first name or a nickname, which can unintentionally reduce professional authority. In workplace settings, confidence is crucial, yet many women wait to be noticed rather than actively showcasing their value.