Promotion really is the key. As one of my instructors once told us " jo dikhta hai wo bikta hai" loosely translated as [that which is visible, sells], i have learnt it in professional setting as well. If you don't participate in activities, your co-workers tend to look over you. But if you participate in daily activities as well as initiate new ones, then they are sure to notice you. Not only your coworkers but your superiors as well start taking you seriously.