Those familiar with my column will know I always talk about your "personal brand", and how important it is in the development of your long-term career. Most people however, don't know what their personal brand stands for and are therefore unable to articulate this in a meaningful way.
Two good questions to start with are "what are you passionate about?" and "where do you want to take your career long-term?" Knowing the long-term space you want to be involved in and known for will help you to find your career "voice".
Being the "voice" of your department/company/industry
Being seen and recognised as an authority in your field provides a high level of trust and opens up career opportunities you may not have thought possible months earlier.
When you speak to any audience, you become an "authority" by default. A client of mine was new to their team, working with more experienced and qualified colleagues. An opportunity came to present to their own organisation at an internal management meeting, and of course, no one was keen. As the newest person, my client felt somewhat pressured to present on behalf of the others, but was very well received when they spoke at the meeting. This then led to an opportunity to present on behalf of their business at a national conference. Over time, and with training, this opened up a whole new career.
