**Author**: Otavio Santana   Translation: Tuan **Why Focus on Influence in Career Development** As software engineers, we often prioritize technical depth and breadth, yet influence plays a critical role in career progression. This article explores the core value of influence in career development. **Why Consider Influence** When discussing career development, we frequently focus on technical skills, a perspective that has sparked widespread debate in the industry. This article will examine the fundamental value of influence in career development. **The Importance of Visibility** Visibility is the cornerstone of career development, not only reflecting technical proficiency but also shaping personal brand development. Building influence both within and outside organizations is essential for advancing one's career. **Strategies for Influence Building** This article will explore four key dimensions: first, defining the core dimensions of career development; second, examining practical pathways for influence construction; and finally, proposing specific strategies. **Influence Construction Strategies** Visibility is the foundation of career development, enabling individuals to gain recognition both within and outside organizations. When organizations understand an individual's professional capabilities and career trajectory, opportunities for promotion and career advancement become clearer. Career development is an individual's responsibility, not an organizational one. Therefore, active personal branding is essential. **Strategies for Personal Branding** To build a personal brand, the following strategies are recommended: - **Company Website**: Showcase professional capabilities through professional content to enhance organizational recognition. - **Knowledge Sharing**: Transmit professional value through technical blogs or internal workshops. - **Conference Participation**: Demonstrate professional capabilities in technical conferences to expand professional networks. - **Open Source Contributions**: Showcase technical depth through open-source projects to enhance industry influence. These strategies will help establish a professional image both within and outside organizations, thereby improving career development opportunities. **Conclusion** As software engineers, we often focus on technical capabilities, yet influence is the key to career advancement. Building visibility both within and outside organizations is the core element of career development. Through professional content output, knowledge sharing, conference participation, and open-source contributions, individuals can effectively enhance their personal brand value. This article aims to assist in building a personal brand and advancing one's career. Career development is an individual's endeavor, requiring active construction of professional image and seizing career development opportunities.