I’ll admit, Jim Lukaszewski’s session on “Getting to the Table” was a surprise. It was full of practical advise and insight, rather than theoretical platitudes. Some of my key take aways?
- All problems start as management problems (not communications problems). Management problems are also leadership problems.
- Be sensitive to the management perspective and leadership issues
- Find a way to help them do the job more effectively
- CEOs are process thinkers. Communicators are intuitive thinkers. We can come with ideas all the time. It drives them nuts because they can’t see the evidence behind the idea. Find a way to give advice that fits their style.
- It’s their business. They get to do what they want.
- Do things that will help them move on their own
- When they call consultants in, it’s because they’re scared. It’s not about the staff communicator. It’s about him.
- You must become comfortable working within the “clash of ideas.” That’s what’s required at this altitude.
- Three key steps:
- Talk to them about something beyond their knowledge base
- Give advice in real time/on the spot (no going away to write a plan)
- Help them with what to do next
It all requires work on the communicator’s part. You must intentionally learn more; you must steep yourself in things that matter and train yourself to fit their style. For anyone who truly aspires to being the trusted adviser of a CEO, I’d recommend catching Jim’s full presentation when you can.
