In a recent LinkedIn post, Eric Sim discusses a critical, often overlooked, factor in professional success and career advancement: distribution. Sim, a former investment banker, shares a personal anecdote about a failed training program to illustrate his point that while a strong product and brand are important, a robust distribution network is paramount, especially when transitioning out of corporate life.
The Flaw in Sim’s Initial Approach
Sim recounts his experience designing a two-day program aimed at helping professionals get promoted. Despite what he considered a solid product – his own skill set honed in investment banking – the program failed to attract sufficient sign-ups, leading to its cancellation. This initial failure prompted a deeper reflection on what was missing.
He found his answer by looking at a global giant: Coca-Cola. Sim highlights that Coca-Cola’s immense value isn’t solely due to its product or brand, but significantly because of its unparalleled distribution network. As he puts it:
“Coke is one of the world’s most valuable companies, not just because of its product and brand, but also because of its distribution. You can find a Coke in almost any convenience store, in almost any country (except Cuba and North Korea ). A new beverage company might develop a superior drink and spend money on branding, but building that kind of distribution network? It’s tough.”
Applying the Distribution Principle to Professional Development
Sim draws a parallel between Coca-Cola’s distribution challenge and his own professional development program. He realized that while he had a strong product (his expertise) and some existing brand recognition from his banking career, he lacked the necessary distribution channels to reach his target audience effectively. His existing network consisted primarily of former colleagues and clients who had little interest or capacity to engage with career skills training.
“The same was true for me,” Sim writes. “I had a solid product (my skill set). I had some branding albeit in banking, not in training. What I truly lacked was distribution.”
The Underestimated Power of Distribution
The post emphasizes that while personal branding is a widely discussed topic, distribution often gets less attention. Sim argues that many professions rely heavily on distribution networks:
- Real estate agents leverage their networks to close deals and earn commissions.
- Publishers expect authors to utilize their own networks to sell books.
This concept of distribution becomes particularly crucial when individuals consider leaving traditional corporate employment. Sim strongly advises professionals to build and nurture their networks while still employed, as this period offers a more stable foundation for network expansion.
“It’s far easier to build your network while you still have a day job. Don’t wait.”
According to Sim, proactively building a distribution network—essentially, a strong and relevant professional network—is a strategic imperative for long-term career resilience and success, especially for those aspiring to build independent ventures or transition into new career paths.
“Everyone talks about personal branding. Few talk about distribution.”
Sim’s insights suggest that focusing on cultivating a wide and engaged network can provide a more significant advantage than solely concentrating on personal branding or product development, particularly when aiming for significant career shifts or entrepreneurial endeavors.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Eric Sim on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 3, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →