One of the things that can befuddle managers, even experienced ones, is how to make small talk with their big bosses or industry moguls. When you are talking about someone who has complete authority over you, be it your boss’s boss or the CEO, the word “small” becomes relative. Anything involving a boss can have a big impact. A conversion with them is like a double-edged sword. It can bring you great opportunity and quick recognition but the flip side is the fear of making wrong statements that lead to your downfall. The best way to guard yourself against these elevator meetings is to be prepared. Actually you need to plan out of what you are going to say and how you are going to say. Both of these criteria requires maximum attention from you. This works well if you know that the person is coming to visit your department or if you have the opportunity chat with him at an all-employee gathering. So here’s what you can do.
A good preparation in advance really pays rich dividends. The reason why I am reiterating that you need to prepare even if there is no scheduled invite is that there is also an instance when you can accidentally meet this person say in the elevator, or in a social meeting. Opportunities with big shots do not come often, we need to be ready when it come. The good news is that what works for prepared encounters works even more for impromptu ones. That’s why you should practice your key messages from time to time, use the time while you drive to office or before any status meetings. The exercise will give you confidence that you have what it takes to have a clear and coherent conversation with people in power. Never forget that senior leaders are people first; executives second. Never forget your own personal abilities. And never forget that making small talk can have a big impact on your career. From Thirukkural#697: வேட்பன சொல்லி வினையில எஞ்ஞான்றும் கேட்பினும் சொல்லா விடல். [Translated: Tell him what will enthrall him; but indulge not in useless small talk, even if he desires so.] Here are some more points to help you prepare well for such meetings:
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AuthorVasudevan is a Leadership Mentor and an Executive coach. I run an online website geared towards helping creative entrepreneurs and future managers to build their dreams. Archives
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