Sitting down to start the meeting, the CEO laid a Colt .45 Peacemaker in front of himself. Executives sitting in their customary spots around the polished conference table of the of the multi-billion dollar Oil and Gas related manufacturer sat frozen. After making eye contact with each of them, he said “We are here to get something straight once and for all.” The point to my story is not whatever minor course correction the CEO had in mind, but rather he knew how to get their attention.
Dale Carnegie said not to be afraid of engaging in a little showmanship to get an idea across. I’m not advocating for firearms in the workplace, but selling an idea with a little flair can be effective. Whatever you do, ensure your presentation is policy compliant, delivered with candor, and safe. Executives don’t have a lot of spare time, so be brief, anticipate questions, and conclude with a compelling reason for them to agree with you.
How to make the most efficient use of limited time when in a meeting with an executive, or in making a presentation requires thought. Years ago, I drafted a list of points for consideration in preparing for presentations, drafting policies, or meetings with superiors. Incorporating this list of 10 points into your own preparations, or even sharing it with your employees may bring unanticipated benefits:
1. Analyze the problem from various viewpoints
2. Consider all the issues
3. Are there possible alternatives?
4. What are the pluses and minuses of the alternatives?
5. What is Company policy on the matter?
6. How about the law?
7. Any past precedents?
8. What are the right questions?
9. Will the final solution stand the test of time?
10. After contemplating all of the above: What is the right thing to do?
KeystoneHR offers Best Practices focused HR and related policies and documents, training, consultation, and project work. With over 40 years of progressive HR experience in Fortune 500 companies and upper-end LLC’s, our team is poised to help. See our website – KeystoneHR.com. KeystoneHR – Best-in-Class helping Best-in-Class.
