Executive relationships are challenging to manage regardless of your designation or job profile. People always ask how to build relationships with executives at a higher seniority level than them, and surprisingly, the answer is not so complicated. Here are a few tips to help you manage executive relationships.
The easiest way to build a relationship with anyone is to agree with them. When you say ‘yes’ to everything you agree with, it shows them you have the same vision. So, phrases like, ‘Yes, I completely agree with you,’ ‘I was thinking the same thing,’ ‘That sounds great! ‘ and’ Why didn’t I think of that? ‘ will help you blend in with your leadership team.
Be Enthusiastic In Your Work
Whether it is to bring a coffee for your manager or assist them with any regular activity like data analysis, a person with a can-do attitude is always appreciated. It will raise a sense of responsibility and eventually build trust. Also, this will create a habit of relying on you in case any work arises that they think will be handled well by you. For example, in their absence, you could be in charge!
Propose Ideas That Work Well
If you are confident about an idea or a concept that will benefit the company, present it in a way that reaches as many people as possible. This will make you shine. In addition, this will create an excellent impression on your senior managers and assure them that you genuinely care about the company. This tactic works well in strategic relationship building, as giving a good idea has no downside or disadvantage.
Engage In Intellectual And Meaningful Conversations
Crafting yourself as a brand and getting into the inner circle is hard. Get to know about the interests of your superiors and relate with them on those subjects. Conversations like these lead to building great executive relationships and even result in friendships.
Be Authentic, Keep In Touch & Build Relationships Over Time
Be mindful that the manager is one of many people that matter. People in other positions influence the company, and you should be in their good books too. Executive relationships require time, so don’t be impatient and make yourself seem like a desperate stickup. Instead, check up on them when they are on sick leave. This will make them think that you care not only about the company but also about them.
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These tips will surely help you build strategic relationships. So, the next time someone asks, “How do I build relationships with my seniors?” You can refer to this blog.