Crystal's Notes 2 Nov

When you were in school, you were probably taught that success depended on what you knew, or how you could do things. But I’m here to tell you that as you grow into your career, so much of success is actually about who you know. That is why building strong connections and having a robust network of people you can call on for support and advice is a total game-changer.

Speaking to Stakeholders

1. Keep It Short: In your communications with management, remember to always be succinct. Get to the point. Senior stakeholders have collective ADHD! 

2. “So What, Now What?”: Always imagine them reading every line of what you sent and ask yourself if it passes the, “So what? Now what?” test. If reading what you’ve written elicits a “So what”, rewrite to make your point clearer. Make sure you also include next steps, so people don’t ask you, “Now what?!”

3. Have Novel Insights: Be curious and read or listen to many different sources of inspiration to be a diverse thinker and notice what is going on. Don’t be novel just for the sake of being contrarian, but never take things at face value. Ask why, and why not. 

Making Small Talk With CEOs

Your CEO enters the lift. Do you scurry to the corner, or do you speak to him/her? Here are some quick tips on what you can say in the 20-second elevator ride!

1. What’s Happening: Share something you’re excited about, like the project you’re working on!

2. What’s Being Fixed: Talk about an interesting problem you’re in the middle of working on.

3. What’s Working: Share a piece of positive feedback from clients or your colleagues.

These slices of interactions with your senior stakeholders are not trivial. They go a long way to influencing people when they're thinking about who to promote and who to reward at the end of the year. It's end of the year time. Go forth and become visible in your career! And, if you need to work on your personal voice, check out Round 3 of Inspired Speaking by Petrina Kow.

Networking Tips for Introverts

Networking can feel draining, especially for introverts. Here are some tips to make it more manageable:

• Craft Your Introduction: Prepare a brief and engaging introduction about yourself.

• Share a Fun Story: Think of an interesting anecdote from your week to share with others.

• Set Goals: Aim for at least two meaningful conversations during your networking sessions.

• Normalise Awkwardness: Remind yourself that many people feel uncomfortable with small talk too!

• Start in low-stakes situations: Practice making small talk and connecting with people at gatherings and events where you know people. Gradually expose yourself to more challenging environments after that!

Embrace the Networking Experience

Redefine your understanding of networking — approach each interaction with curiosity and a desire to be of service, and you'll find networking can become a natural and rewarding part of your everyday life.

Join me at my Deep Human Networking Masterclass to gain insights into building authentic relationships. We’ll kick things off with an hour dedicated to theory, followed by two hours of interactive practice—all while enjoying a three-course dinner together. Get on the waitlist here to level up your personal and professional connections.

Community Network

If you want to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who are driven by productivity, personal growth, and wellness, the Deep Human Club is for you. You'll be building meaningful connections, sharing in each other’s journeys, and uplifting each other to pursue goals. Here is the waitlist to join our dynamic, supportive network!

Much love

Crystal