Becoming a CEO - The Art of Networking

How do leaders who covet the CEO position best make that step up into the top role?

There is no single answer but many underestimate the strategic benefits of networking when navigating the path to the CEO seat.?

Often consumed with delivering in their current position, senior leaders lack time and headspace to take stock of where they are in their career and plan how best to achieve their career goals. A simple strategy that every executive could implement today is building and cultivating a network that will enhance their chances of taking the next career step.

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1)????? The first step is to identify who to add to your network. It is important to make sure the time committed to networking is spent as efficiently as possible. Focusing on executives and non-executives who hold roles with businesses that interest you is a great start but think broader! I would recommend including advisors from professional services firms and banks. This will increase your reach and they are often able to give you exclusive and valuable market insight.?

2)????? The second step is to get connected to these individuals through people who you already count as friends and colleagues. Leveraging existing connections yields the best chance of getting a meeting with the chair or NED you want to connect with. For example, if someone I rate introduces me to someone, I will always meet them. Both out of professional courtesy and because I value my networks opinion and they wouldn’t make the connection without reason.?

3)????? The third step is preparation - Do your research! I know it sounds obvious but spend time thinking through your recent roles and achievements. Having key numbers to hand, can be the difference between impressing or not. My advice is to research their background and importantly look at their connections on LinkedIn or the boards on which they sit. Always asking the question, who can they connect you with and who you would like to know? Finally, in my experience the best conversationalists are ones who ask great questions not the ones who talk a lot!

4)????? Final step, relationships don’t happen in one meeting. True relationships take time to form so you need to keep connecting with each other.?After every meeting write notes, create a reminder to follow up and then make sure you stay in touch.

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If you invest a small amount of time on an ongoing basis networking can be incredibly rewarding. Not only to the value it adds to your career but also the different perspectives you can learn, and most importantly it can be great fun!

If there is any way I can help you on your networking journey, please reach out.