It's Just Lunch, not Marriage

Do you remember the days when you were single, and someone asked you out for a casual lunch or coffee? You tried to figure out if they were "the one" before even meeting them, dissecting every detail and potential outcome. It's a common human tendency, isn't it? We want to know if something is worth our time and effort before we dive in.

But here's the twist - sometimes, in our quest for certainty and commitment, we miss out on making remarkable connections. Those spontaneous encounters can lead to unexpected friendships, valuable experiences, and even lifelong partnerships.

In this article, we're going to explore a concept that could transform your approach to career growth: the power of "just lunch." Specifically, we'll delve into why you should embrace the idea of a casual lunch or coffee meeting with leaders in your organization and why visibility throughout the entire company, not just in your immediate area, is essential for securing that coveted promotion.

1. Networking Beyond Borders: How to Extend the Invitation

Promotions aren't limited to your immediate team or department. They can happen anywhere within your organization, even if it means taking a different path than you originally planned. Here's a simple yet effective way to extend the invitation for lunch or coffee:

• Start with a polite and concise email: "Dear [Leader's Name], I hope this message finds you well. I've been impressed by your achievements and insights at [mention a recent event or project], and I believe there's a lot I could learn from your experience."
• Express your intent: "I'm interested in hearing more about your journey and gaining insights that could help me in my own career growth."
• Propose a specific date and time: "Would you be available for a brief lunch or coffee meeting next [suggest a date and time that works for you]? I'd be happy to accommodate your schedule."
• Show flexibility: "If that doesn't work for you, please let me know when you're available, and I'll adjust my schedule accordingly."

By following this approach, you not only show respect for their time but also convey a genuine interest in learning from them. Remember, the key is to be authentic and courteous in your request.

2. Making It About Them: Sharing Aspirations and Seeking Advice

During these meetings, prioritize making the discussion about the leader you're meeting with before transitioning to your own aspirations. This approach not only shows respect for their expertise but also creates a more engaging and productive conversation.

• Begin by expressing genuine admiration: "I've been truly impressed by your accomplishments and the impact you've made at [mention a recent achievement or project]. Your journey is inspiring, and I'm eager to learn from your experiences."
• Show curiosity about their career path: "Could you share more about your career journey and the pivotal moments that have shaped your success?"
• Inquire about their insights: "I'm keen to understand what you believe are the critical factors for professional growth and the best advice you've received along the way."
• Transition to your own aspirations: After allowing them to share their insights and experiences, smoothly transition to your own career aspirations: "Thank you for sharing your journey; it's incredibly insightful. I'm also aspiring to [mention your career goals], and I believe your guidance could be immensely valuable as I navigate my own path."

By starting the conversation with a genuine focus on their achievements and experiences, you not only build rapport but also create a more open and receptive environment for discussing your own aspirations. Remember, the key is to show a sincere interest in their story before sharing your own.

3. Dare to Be Visible Across Organizations and Adapt

Visibility across different parts of your company is critical. Promotions can take various forms - they may be upwards in your current department or sideways and upwards to a different area where your skills are also a fit, that you hadn't considered. By reaching out for lunch or coffee with leaders from diverse areas, you not only enhance your visibility but also open doors for collaboration and advancement that you might otherwise miss.

Remember, promotions are not always about climbing a singular ladder; they can involve navigating a web of opportunities. Your next step may not be a traditional vertical move but bringing your talents to a different department where your expertise is in demand.

In this ever-evolving corporate landscape, one thing remains constant: You can't be a success if you are a secret. Opportunities thrive on exposure, and your career growth relies on your willingness to make yourself known to leaders from various corners of the company.

Moreover, don't be too attached to the path you think you want. The corporate landscape is constantly evolving, and your ideal path today may not be the same tomorrow. Be open to new opportunities, even if they lead you down an unexpected road. Sometimes, the detours are the ones that lead to the most significant growth and success.

Ready to Take Control of Your Career?

Now, here's the direct and actionable part: Reach out to those three leaders within the next 48 hours and extend an invitation for lunch or coffee using the approach outlined above. Send those emails or schedule those meetings. Your promotion is within your grasp, but only if you seize the opportunities right in front of you.

But remember, getting visibility is just one facet of securing that coveted promotion. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of your readiness and potential areas for improvement, I invite you to take advantage of our Executive Promotion Readiness Assessment. This complimentary assessment is designed to provide you with insights into your strengths and areas where you can further develop your executive leadership skills. It also includes a 45-minute debrief to help you create a roadmap to the future you desire.

In conclusion, promotions are not just about doing your job well; they're about strategically positioning yourself for growth. Take the leap, connect with colleagues, and embrace the unexpected twists and turns in your career path.

Remember, you have the power to shape your destiny within the company. Dare to be visible, not only within your department but across the entire organization, and be adaptable in your career aspirations. You'll be better equipped to navigate your way to that coveted promotion.

Stay tuned for more insights in our journey together.

No more waiting. Use the approach provided to invite them for lunch or coffee now and make your promotion happen!

And for a broader view of your executive readiness, don't forget to take the Executive Promotion Readiness Assessment.

Best regards,

Alison Arnoff

Dare 2 Be Coaching