What are effective time management strategies when communicating with executives?

We have weekly 1:1 meetings. I create an itemized list for our reviews. If its Calendar items, I have the date then list concerns, conflicts or event for discussion If following up on an event, such as guest list, I have it under its own heading This a new working relationship which we are still working through what works but we are starting to understand each other If its urgent, I’ll send a TEAMS message; text or an email Sometimes we have a very quick discussion

Always have a list of items ready to go when chatting with an executive. Their time is limited, so keeping the conversation to the point and structured, allows you to stay on track, get your answers and also waste little time. Listing items and taking notes also keeps you on track, as the person who then has to go back and implement everything that was discussed.

Be concise!!! One of the aspects of being a trusted advisor means that the person you're supporting has to have faith that you will summarize information concisely and provide only essential details. One of my first support roles, my boss said "I don't care how you kill the cow, I just want my steak" and it's a quote that still guides me, today.

1. Prepare agenda points in advance for clear communication, saving time and ensuring brevity. 2. Take detailed notes during the conversation to retain important information, as there's no possible way your brain can remember everything they said, this minimizes back & forth and hence saves time.

I find it a good idea to meet with your executive for a few minutes every morning and use this time if possible to seek clarification.

Yes! My exec and I have a shared Asana board where I can add items to be addressed, with my due dates and level of urgency. But if he's not in there when I need him to be, then I coordinate a call and have my list from Asana for a quick recap. I can then update our board and keep things moving. We communicate via Whatsapp for the most pressing items or quick questions. Find what works for you and your exec, as it will be different for every exec you work with.

I believe knowing and understanding your leader's decision-making style proves as important as choosing the right channel. I've supported quick-thinking, extremely decisive executives who preferred frequent communications via IM and text. A very analytical leader sought access to regular data reports, weekly check-ins, and monthly planning sessions for the two of us. Though my own communication style remained basically the same in both scenarios, the delivery method changed according to the executives' methods of consumption and decision M.O. My providing agility and empathy in comms approach supported their focus to move the business forward.

I've found success by deeply understanding my executives and our business, allowing me to act decisively on their behalf without constant check-ins. By building trust and leveraging my knowledge, I navigate our operations and key relationships, adjusting plans seamlessly. My strategy involves solving problems independently first, utilizing all resources at my disposal. This approach frees them to focus on strategic priorities, ensuring we move forward efficiently and effectively.