Why Talented People Go Unnoticed: Career Cheat Codes with Courtney Johnson

A lot of talented people assume that if they work hard enough, they’ll eventually get noticed. Courtney Johnson says that’s simply not how careers work.

In this episode, Jay sits down with Courtney, author of Career Cheat Codes, to unpack the unwritten rules that often separate people who get promoted, hired, and remembered from those who get overlooked. They explore how visibility, relationship-building, and personal branding shape career growth, whether you’re applying for a job, growing a business, or trying to expand your influence inside your company.

Courtney shares practical ways to stand out, from sending a thoughtful follow-up note to improving your digital first impression with better lighting, audio, and online presence. She also opens up about how applying The ONE Thing helped her build her platform, land a book deal, and push through imposter syndrome.

Challenge of the Week:

Get visible in one way that feels a little uncomfortable this week. Post on LinkedIn, share a recent win in your company channel, or raise your hand in a room where you’d normally stay quiet. Pick the one that feels scariest and do it anyway.

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To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: the1thing.com/pods.

We talk about:

• [00:00] In Corporate, Working Hard Isn’t Enough

• [05:53] Getting Your Foot in the Door

• [08:36] What Employers Look for in 

• [12:58] Do First Impressions Matter?

• [17:44] Crafting The Perfect Digital First Impression

• [25:52] She Focused on Her ONE Thing

• [38:13] The ONE Thing Challenge 

Links & Tools from This Episode:

• Read Career Cheat Codes by Courtney Johnson

• Connect with Courtney on LinkedIn

• Follow Courtney Johnson on TikTok

• Free Resources

• Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email podcast@the1thing.com  

Produced by NOVA