Early in my career, I joined a company where I needed to quickly earn the trust of a discerning leadership team. In my first few weeks, I focused on understanding the company’s goals and observing each executive’s unique approach. Instead of jumping in with suggestions, I posed thoughtful questions that aligned with their objectives, such as, “Would it be helpful to explore X to achieve Y?” This approach showed respect for their expertise while positioning me as a thoughtful, engaged contributor. Gradually, they began seeking my input directly. I learned that trust is built not through grand gestures but by consistently demonstrating alignment with leadership’s priorities and offering insights at the right time.

When I joined a new organization, I quickly realized that building trust with senior executives was key to my success. During my first few weeks, I made it a point to schedule one-on-one meetings with each executive, where I actively listened to their perspectives and learned about their priorities. I also made sure to share my experiences and how they could align with the organization’s goals, which helped to establish my credibility. One time, I proposed a small initiative that addressed a pain point one of the executives mentioned, and they appreciated my proactive approach. By consistently delivering on my commitments and maintaining open lines of communication, I navigated the power dynamics and fostered a collaborative relationship.