Here are 10 tips for making the most of networking with senior executives:
Start a conversation asking about their interests. Remember that even CEOs are human beings too and therefore want to engage in normal conversations. Be genuinely interested in what they have to say.
Avoid treating executives as superhuman. Simply treat them as you’d like to be treated.
Don’t name drop as a way to get their attention. Be yourself – be real!
Respect their time. Senior executives are usually running a business or managing a large part of an organisation, so if they give you their time, use it wisely and respectfully.
Get to the point and make it memorable to take advantage of the short amount of time you might have with them. It will make the next part easier too…
Follow up after your meeting. Ensure you thank them for their time and advice. This is important for relationship building at all levels.
Offer your help if the opportunity arises. Senior leaders are not experts in everything and they could need help from time to time. Whether it’s a travel tip or information about a new piece of technology that might mitigate a challenge, offer something that benefits them (and I don’t mean a sales pitch!).
Ask for advice or mentoring. Senior executives are often more than happy to help others. If you feel a specific leader would make an ideal mentor for you, ask them. You could also ask for feedback or advice in an area of your business or career to benefit from their expertise straight away.
Be genuine. Truly listen rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. Give sincere responses.
Don’t sell at the first meeting. This is off-putting to most people, and especially to the guy at the top! Invest in building a relationship first. An MD or CEO will often pass a supplier enquiry down to a colleague as this isn’t often where their focus is….do not be offended by this.
