So, you’ve landed an internship or job at a big corporation—congrats! Whether it’s a Fortune 500 company or a well-established global brand, you’re now part of a massive, well-oiled machine. But here’s the thing: in an organization with thousands of employees, how do you make sure you don’t just blend into the background? How do you stand out, build a reputation, and actually make an impact?

Big corporations come with structured processes, established hierarchies, and sometimes—let’s be real—a whole lot of bureaucracy. But that doesn’t mean you’re destined to be just another name in the company directory. Here’s how you can navigate the system and carve out a name for yourself.

Master the art of corporate navigation (a.k.a. learn the rules before you break them)

Before you try to shake things up, take time to understand the company’s structure, culture, and unspoken rules. Every big company has its way of doing things, and being aware of these dynamics will help you make smarter career moves.

• Know the chain of command: Who makes decisions? Who are the real influencers beyond job titles? Observe and learn.
• Understand the approval process: Want to push a new idea? Figure out how decisions get made and who needs to buy in.
• Learn the company’s values and priorities: Every corporation has certain buzzwords they love. Align your work with these to gain traction.

Become the go-to person for something valuable

One of the best ways to get noticed is to develop expertise in a specific area. Find a niche that aligns with the company’s needs but isn’t overly crowded, and own it.

• Find a skill gap: Is there something that the company struggles with that you can master? Data visualization? Process improvement? Presentation skills?
• Be the person people rely on: If your colleagues know that you’re the best at simplifying complex reports or navigating internal systems, they’ll start turning to you—and so will leadership.
• Stay ahead of trends: Keep an eye on industry shifts and suggest how your company can stay competitive.

Network like your career depends on it (because it does)

In a big corporation, who you know is just as important as what you know. Building a strong internal network can open doors and help you gain visibility.

• Meet people outside your team: Don’t just stick to your immediate department. Connect with people from different functions—HR, marketing, finance—you never know when those relationships will come in handy.
• Find a mentor (or two): Seek guidance from someone senior who can help you navigate corporate politics and advocate for your growth.
• Be active in company events: Join employee resource groups, attend leadership talks, or participate in cross-functional projects to increase your exposure.

Speak up in meetings (even when it’s intimidating)

Meetings are where decisions happen and reputations are built. If you sit quietly, you’re missing an opportunity to show your value.

• Ask smart questions: Thoughtful questions show engagement and help you contribute even if you’re new.
• Share insights when relevant: You don’t have to talk just to talk, but when you have an idea, don’t hold back.
• Volunteer for projects: If leadership is discussing a new initiative and asks for input, step up—it’s a great way to get involved.

Deliver results and make your wins visible

Doing great work is important, but in a big corporation, results don’t always speak for themselves. You need to make sure the right people know what you’ve accomplished.

• Keep track of your achievements: Document projects, results, and any positive feedback you receive.
• Share your successes strategically: Instead of outright bragging, find ways to highlight your work in meetings, team updates, or performance reviews.
• Give credit to others: When you acknowledge your team’s efforts while also showcasing your role, people respect you more.

Be proactive about growth and learning

Unlike startups where you naturally get to wear multiple hats, big corporations require you to actively seek out growth opportunities.

• Ask for stretch assignments: Look for projects that push you beyond your current role.
• Take advantage of company resources: Many corporations have learning platforms, tuition reimbursements, or leadership training—use them.
• Regularly check in with your manager: Instead of waiting for an annual review, have ongoing conversations about your career trajectory.

Build a personal brand WITHIN the company

Standing out isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how people perceive you.

• Be known for reliability and professionalism: Simple things like meeting deadlines, communicating clearly, and staying professional go a long way.
• Maintain a positive attitude: Corporate environments can be frustrating, but being the person who stays solutions-oriented will make you stand out.
• Be visible on internal platforms: If your company has an internal social network, share insights, comment on leadership updates, and engage with the community.

Final thoughts: Play the long game

Success in a big corporation isn’t about making a splash on day one—it’s about consistently showing up, delivering value, and positioning yourself for long-term growth. It takes patience, but if you navigate the system strategically, you can rise through the ranks, gain recognition, and build a fulfilling career.