The Art of C-Level Networking: Building Meaningful Connections

For C-suite executives and board members, networking is not just about exchanging business cards or adding connections on LinkedIn., it’s an art form that requires finesse, strategy, and a deep understanding of human dynamics. This article explores effective networking strategies for senior executives, drawing insights from reputable sources and offering practical advice on building meaningful professional relationships.

The Power of Executive Networking

According to a study by Harvard Business Review, executives who actively network are 40% more likely to receive positive performance reviews and 25% more likely to get pay raises1 . This underscores the critical role networking plays in career advancement and success at the highest levels of business.

The executive search firm Korn Ferry emphasizes that “networking is not just about who you know, but who knows you”2 . This perspective shifts the focus from merely collecting contacts to building genuine relationships that can open doors to new opportunities and insights.

Approaching High-Level Connections

When reaching out to fellow C-suite executives or board members, the approach is crucial. The key is to strike a balance between personal and professional, creating a connection that feels authentic yet respects professional boundaries.

1. Research and Personalize: Before making contact, thoroughly research the person you wish to connect with. Understand their background, recent accomplishments, and current challenges their company might be facing.
2. Find Common Ground: Look for shared experiences, mutual contacts, or aligned interests that can serve as a natural conversation starter.
3. Offer Value First: Instead of focusing on what you can gain, consider what you can offer. This could be industry insights, introductions to your network, or perspectives on challenges they’re facing.
4. Foster Genuine Connections: Approach interactions with authenticity and a sincere interest in the other person’s experiences. For example: “I was fascinated by your company’s recent expansion into Asian markets. As someone who’s navigated similar challenges, I’d love to hear your perspectives on the experience. Perhaps we could exchange ideas over coffee sometime?”

The Art of Not Asking for a Job

A common pitfall in networking, especially at the C-level, is the direct ask for a job or business opportunity. As noted by the executive coaching firm AlixPartners, “Asking for a job puts the other person in a position of power and can make the interaction transactional rather than relationship-building”3 .

Instead of directly asking for a job or opportunities, focus on creating genuine connections and sharing your professional journey. This approach allows the other person to offer insights, advice, or opportunities organically. Here’s how to do it:

1. Share Your Story: Be open about your current professional situation and goals. For example: “I’m currently exploring new opportunities as a VP of Finance or CFO in the fintech sector, focusing on mid-market companies that are innovating in blockchain technology.”
2. Discuss Industry Trends: Engage in meaningful conversations about the latest developments in your field. This could sound like: “I’ve been fascinated by the recent shifts in renewable energy adoption. What’s your take on how this might reshape the utilities sector?”
3. Express Your Passions: Talk about projects or areas of business that genuinely excite you. For instance: “I’ve been working on developing more sustainable supply chain practices. It’s been challenging but incredibly rewarding.”
4. Be Curious About Their Experience: Show genuine interest in their professional journey. You might say: “I’ve always admired how your company has navigated market disruptions. How do you approach strategic decision-making in such a dynamic environment?”

By focusing on these elements, you create an environment where the other person can naturally offer advice, share relevant connections, or even mention opportunities that align with your interests and goals. This approach maintains your autonomy while allowing for organic, mutually beneficial interactions.

Strategic Follow-Up

After the initial connection, maintain the relationship through strategic follow-ups:

1. Share Relevant Content: Send articles, reports, or insights that align with their interests or current projects.
2. Celebrate Their Successes: Acknowledge their achievements or company milestones.
3. Propose Collaboration: If appropriate, suggest ways you might work together on industry initiatives or thought leadership pieces.
4. Stay Top of Mind: Maintain periodic contact without being intrusive. A quarterly check-in can be sufficient to keep the relationship warm.

By focusing on building genuine relationships, offering value, and maintaining strategic connections, C-level executives can create a powerful network that enhances their career and contributes to their professional growth.

If you want scripts and tips for networking at the C/BOD level, we recommend our online course:?Networking Secrets for Executives | Career Power Strategies Session – CEO Resume Writer . Here is a snapshot of what you will learn:

• Network without ever having to ask for a job (asking someone if they know of any career opportunities is demoralizing, tense and is rarely successful).
• How to invite important contacts you DON’T know but NEED to know to join your LinkedIn network.
• How to reach out to recruiters on LinkedIn.
• The very BEST way to leverage your key network and what to say to get them so they want to help you with possible opportunities, leads and referrals.
• Why asking your networking contacts if they know of job opportunities is the WORST way to go and what to do instead that works SO much better and is SO much easier!
• How to easily land meetings with key people and thought leaders that do not know you.
• THREE different ways to get the gatekeeper to connect you to the key decision maker!

Remember, effective networking at this level is about creating a web of mutually beneficial relationships that can provide support, insights, and opportunities throughout your career journey.

Sources:

1. Harvard Business Review:?https://hbr.org/2016/05/learn-to-love-networking ???
2. Korn Ferry: Title:?https://www.kornferry.com/insights/articles/the-art-of-networking ???
3. AlixPartners:?https://www.alixpartners.com/insights/the-power-of-building-business-relationships/ ???

Mary Elizabeth Bradford?is the Founder and Executive Director of CEOresumewriter.com (founded 2008) and a past executive recruiter. A thought leader in the career services industry for over 20 years, she holds 7 distinct advanced certifications for senior-level resume writing, online branding and executive-level job search coaching (CERM, CMRW, CARW, MCD, NCOPE, IBDC.D, MQLED.D). She has been seen and heard in major media including Forbes, Time, WSJ, Newsweek and NBC affiliate stations. She holds 2 CDI TORI awards and is a top tier judge for the elite CDI TORI awards for four consecutive years. Mary Elizabeth Bradford’s elite team of award-winning, certified, top executive resume writers, former top executive recruiters, and global HR executives help many of the world’s premier C-suite, board members and thought leaders worldwide secure the transitions and compensation packages they want.?Book a free consultation to discuss your executive transition goals here. .