Most engineers think personal brand is fluff—or something reserved for influencers and executives. That mindset is costing careers. In this episode, Steve Maxey and Jake Maxey break down what “personal brand” actually means for engineers, why you already have one whether you like it or not, and how unintentional behavior is quietly working against you. This isn’t theory—this is practical, tactical advice grounded in real engineering careers and real outcomes.

Episode 137 - Transcript

Key Topics Covered
• What personal brand really is: reputation plus awareness
• Why “doing good work quietly” is no longer enough
• How engineers accidentally build negative brands without realizing it
• The difference between being technically competent and being known
• Why consistency matters more than talent when it comes to reputation
• How visibility attracts opportunities, mentors, and leverage
• The danger of being everything to everyone—and nothing to anyone
• Why complaining online damages your career more than you think
• How engineers who lean into soft skills stand out faster

Actionable Steps
• Audit how coworkers, leaders, and peers would describe you today
• Decide what you want to be known for—then act accordingly
• Be consistent in how you communicate, respond, and show up
• Start engaging intentionally on LinkedIn instead of lurking
• Share insights, not complaints—digital history is permanent
• Focus on one or two strengths instead of random messaging
• Build awareness outside your immediate workplace
• Reach out to people in your industry without an agenda
• Treat reputation as a long-term asset, not a side effect

Who This Episode Is For
• Engineers feeling overlooked despite strong technical skills
• Early-career engineers who want faster growth and visibility
• Burned-out high performers stuck in execution mode
• Engineers who avoid self-promotion and pay the price
• Professionals who want more control over their career trajectory

Why It Matters
Your energy, visibility, and reputation compound over time—positively or negatively. The engineers who advance aren’t just capable; they’re clear, consistent, and known. If you don’t take ownership of your personal brand, others will define it for you—and not in your favor.

Where to Listen
Spotify
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Or wherever you get your podcasts