Have you ever felt like you’re working hard but still not getting the recognition you deserve? Do you see yourself as a strong contributor, yet you’re overlooked for promotions? If so, you might be what my guest, Ali Wilson, calls a “hidden leader.”
In my latest podcast episode, I had an insightful conversation with Ali Wilson, executive coach and founder of Hidden Leaders. Ali shared her journey from chemical engineer to the C-suite and how she developed a passion for helping talented individuals who often go unnoticed.
What Is a Hidden Leader?
A hidden leader is someone with the emotional intelligence, humility, and capability to lead, but who might not always speak up or project confidence in the traditional way. These individuals are often deeply committed to their team’s success but tend to be the last to promote themselves.
Ali’s insights really struck a chord with me because I’ve seen this pattern so often—especially among women in tech. We tend to wait for someone else to recognize our hard work, but the truth is, leadership requires us to step up and own our brilliance.
Why Are Hidden Leaders Overlooked?
Ali explained that the very traits that make hidden leaders exceptional—like humility, curiosity about others, and a focus on team goals—are often the reason they don’t get noticed. Organizations tend to promote based on confidence and visibility, not necessarily on leadership qualities. This paradox can keep some of the best leaders stuck in roles below their capability.
How Can You Be Seen?
Here’s where it gets practical: Ali offered some powerful steps hidden leaders can take to get recognized and move into leadership roles. One of the most impactful strategies is shifting your mindset. Ali encourages us to ask: “What if I’m seeing things differently because I’m great at what I do, not because I’m missing something?”
When we embrace that perspective, it becomes easier to speak up, share our ideas, and make our contributions visible.
Building Support and Seeking Feedback
Ali also highlighted the importance of finding a supportive community—whether through mentors, peer groups, or women’s networks. These spaces can help you reflect on your strengths, grow your confidence, and gain valuable feedback to propel your career forward.
Take Action: Listen to the Full Episode
If you see yourself as a hidden leader, or if you’re ready to break free from being overlooked, this episode is a must-listen. Ali’s advice will help you gain the recognition and promotion you deserve.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here
The article mentioned in the episode:
- Why do so many mediocre men rise to the top? – https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/may/10/why-do-so-many-mediocre-men-rise-to-the-top
- TedX – Why do so many incompetent men become leaders? – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeAEFEXvcBg
About Ali:
Alison’s journey from chemical engineer to executive coaching has been driven by a passion for unlocking leadership potential in those who may not see it in themselves. In every organisation she has worked with she has come across talented leaders who feel trapped in roles below the level of their capability and ambition. She came to realise that for many, the traits that keep them stuck are the very same traits that ultimately make them exceptional leaders. It’s a paradox that harms everyone, leading to organisations where the most capable people are not the decision makers and results are delivered in spite of leadership, not because of it. Alison has developed the Hidden Leaders program to empower these individuals to recognise their talent, amplify their impact and progress to leadership roles where their true potential can be realised
Follow Ali on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-wilson-coach/
Empower Your Hidden Leadership: https://www.hidden-leader.co.uk/
