Preparing for Executive Conversations
Managers who want to elevate their careers must master one essential skill: communicating effectively with executives.
Executive conversations are not like everyday meetings. They’re faster, sharper, and more focused on strategic impact. If you're not prepared, you'll either ramble, get cut off, or walk away having said nothing of value.
Here’s what new managers and first-time leaders need to know:
Start with the outcome. Executives care about impact. Lead with the “so what?” of your point.
Know your numbers. Back your points with data—especially revenue, cost, performance, and risk.
Think enterprise-wide. Move beyond your team’s challenges to show how the issue or idea affects the broader business.
Be concise. A good executive summary gets your point across in under 60 seconds.
Prepare for curveballs. Anticipate questions. If you don’t know the answer, don’t fake it—offer to follow up.
Managers who prepare for these moments become trusted voices in the room. Those who don’t get passed over.
This is your shot to show you can think like a leader.