How to be a best #N (N>1): Lessons from Sheryl Sandberg

1. Excel at your job, there is no way around it. Even if it is bottom of the org chart, or just one step away from the #1. Focus on your job, make it solid and outstanding
2. Develop your unique brand outside work. For Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In catapulted her to the same league as her boss. Write a book, develop a social media following, marketing your brand
3. Get a buyin from your boss. Sheryl's lean in was endorsed by Mark Zuckerberg. It lends credibility and it also tells people that you are team player even if you have a strong brand outside the team