Hi {{first_name}} ,
Welcome to The Iconic Edge. As always, my goal is to help you find, elevate and monetise YOUR iconic edge.
So you can build ‘walk-away’ power and thrive in the AI age.
Quick question: If I asked five people who know you professionally to describe you in one word, would they all say the same thing?
If you hesitated, you're not alone.
Most professional women are good at everything—and memorable for nothing.
You're great at what you do. But when someone needs to recommend you for a speaking gig, your dream job, or a high-profile project, they freeze. Because you haven't given them a clear way to explain what makes YOU the obvious choice.
Why you (and you alone) have what they need?
Here's the uncomfortable truth:
In today’s world, being well-rounded is a liability.
If you want to be sought after and attract the right opportunities, you have to stand out, you have to be memorable.
In this weeks’ edition, I'm showing you how to find your signature "thing"— the one trait, skill, or signature approach that makes you impossible to forget.
This is an essential element of your iconic edge, so read on!
Why "Your Thing" Matters More Than Ever
When you try to be good at everything, you become memorable for nothing. You blend into the sea of "qualified candidates" who all look the same on paper.
The most successful people—the ones who get opportunities without chasing them—aren't always the best. They're the most distinctive.
Think about it:
Richard Branson is known for being a daredevil adventurer (not just a businessman)
Steve Jobs was known for minimalism and obsessive creativity (not just tech giant )
Anna Wintour is known for her tough leadership and style (not just Editor in chief at Vogue)
None of these people are one-dimensional. But they've each staked out one clear thing they're known for. That's what makes them iconic.
And here's the key: Their "thing" isn't always their main skill.
Your "thing" doesn't have to be your entire identity. It just has to be the hook that makes people remember you.
How to Find Your Signature "Thing"”
You don't need to be eccentric, loud or outlandish to stand out.
You just need to be distinctive.
Your signature "thing" is the intersection of three elements:
What you're naturally good at (that others find difficult)
What makes you slightly different (the edges you've been smoothing out)
What you can own consistently (not a one-time performance)
Here's how to uncover it:
Step 1: Ask Yourself the "Known For" Question
If someone had to describe you in one sentence to someone who's never met you, what would make that person say, "Oh, I need to meet her"?
Not "She's great at project management."
More like:
"She's the one who always has the contrarian take that makes you rethink everything"
"She's known for turning chaos into systems in record time"
"She's the person who asks the question no one else dares to ask"
Your "thing" should make someone lean forward, not nod politely.
Step 2: Look at What You've Been Hiding
Often, your "thing" is the part of yourself you've been told to tone down.
Too direct? That could be your thing (radical honesty)
Too creative for a corporate environment? That's your thing (unconventional problem-solving)
Always the one connecting people? That's your thing (ecosystem builder)
The parts of you that don't quite "fit" are often the parts that make you memorable.
Stop smoothing out your edges. Sharpen them.
Step 3: Add a Signature Element
Once you know your "thing," reinforce it with something visual or behavioural.
This isn't about gimmicks. It's about consistency.
Steve Jobs: Black polo neck
Anna Wintour: Bob haircut + sunglasses
Iris Apfel: Oversized glasses + bold jewellery
Taylor Swift: Red lip + eye flick
Claudia Winkleman: Long fringe + fake tan
You: ?
Maybe it's how you open every presentation. Maybe it's a signature colour you always wear. Maybe it's a phrase you use consistently. Maybe it's the format of your LinkedIn posts.
The signature element becomes a memory trigger.
When people see it, they think of you.
Why This Matters Now
AI is making knowledge and technical competence obsolete.
Anyone can access the same information. Anyone can use AI to write well, analyse data, or create polished work.
What AI can't replicate? Your distinctive way of being.
Your perspective. Your style. Your unique "thing."
When you're known for something specific, you stop competing on credentials and start competing on memorability.
And in a world where everyone has access to the same tools, the memorable ones win.
Your Action Step This Week
Don't overthink this. Start simple.
Answer these three questions:
What do people already compliment me on that I dismiss as "no big deal"?
What part of my personality do I tone down in professional settings?
If I could be known for ONE thing in my field, what would I want it to be?
Write down your answers. Look for the pattern.
That's where your "thing" lives.
Consistency is key. When you find that one thing that makes you different, amplify it.
The Bottom Line
Being good at everything makes you replaceable.
Being unforgettable for ONE thing makes you iconic.
Your "thing" isn't a gimmick. It's your strategic advantage. It's what makes people think of YOU when an opportunity appears.
Stop trying to be the "best" version of someone else and start being the only version of you. Step into a category of one!
All my best,
Nichola
P.S. If you know someone who's excellent at their job but somehow still invisible, forward this to them. Let's help them find their thing.P.S. If you found this valuable, forward this to another ambitious woman who needs to hear it. We rise together.