Kalika Sharma: I have a meeting coming up with a hot-shot cartoon exec & have NO IDEA what to talk with him about. Can't tell whether in this context he's a super-connector, gatekeeper or expert. Please help!

• When the goals and obstacles are shared, treat the conversation like peers navigating the same challenges.
• Lead with curiosity. Let them speak more than half the time so they feel heard and naturally want another conversation.
• Help people feel seen, not just heard. Recognize the real impact of their work and how their contributions changed the landscape.
• When their obstacle appears something that you can solve, shift the conversation. Move from shared curiosity to exploring their problem more deeply.
• Sell with confidence only after you understand their goals and obstacles. Confidence comes from knowing you can genuinely be useful.
• Face it until you make it. Face the fear and show up authentically while still moving the conversation forward.

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