Meeting with the CEO is a big and important event for starting managers. Senior managers have usually little time but a good memory. The way you present to them can, therefore, mean a lot for your future career and the success of your projects in the company. Humancapitalleague.com brought some practical advice for a meeting the CEO.
1. Prepare
Prepare like for a job interview. Try to learn as much information about your CEO as possbile.
2. Present yourself as an expert in your field
The CEO may not be an expert on everything, so he expect you to be an expert.
3. Respect the CEO
Imagine that you spend all day meeting with different people on different topics. Everybody considers his topic to be the most important and look for your decision. This is the daily practice of CEOs. Respect their time by proper preparation and coming up with realistic expectations.
4. Clearly specify what you would consider a victory
Clarify what you want to achieve at the meeting with the CEO. The specificity and feasibility of your requirements will increase your chance to succeed.
5. Do not bring more than one page of text
If not explicitly asked before, do not bring comprehensive reports or presentations. Bring just a one-page resume. More detailed reports should be brought just in case.
Stick to the rule to get on well with your CEO's assistant. When you are friends, it is easier to get a suitable appointment. Come sooner rather than later. Dress formally and remember a good first impression. If you are well prepared, you should have determined in advance whether it would be better to start a small talk or go straight to the point. Anyway, do not talk about the weather for more than five minutes.
Then speak objectively and be prepared for questions. If you finish before the time of your meeting expires, offer the CEO not to keep him any longer. Thank him and his assistant for the chance to meet. Then send him a written thank-you with a short summary of the content of your meeting, including individual decisions and next steps.
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