When I first started having skip-level 1:1s with my manager’s manager, I always found them a little scary. What could I possibly tell them that would be worth taking time out of their busy day? I’d often try to cancel, and if we did meet, I’d fill the time with status updates.
I remember our skip chats! And also our conversation when I was trying to decide whether to go to HBS, which prompted a lot of reflection on my part. Framing how to best use the time upfront really does alleviate the stress / nerves that the team member feels when interfacing with someone at a higher level.
I remember you used to do skips with me. I bombed the first one bc I TOO was nervous and filled it with a status update that I had carefully prepared. At the end you said I didn’t have to do that…it was meant to be a more casual catch up. I was like …”oh!”
Yes! It was conversations like these that made me realize I should describe how I think about these conversations more explicitly up front -- so thank you :)
I remember our skip chats! And also our conversation when I was trying to decide whether to go to HBS, which prompted a lot of reflection on my part. Framing how to best use the time upfront really does alleviate the stress / nerves that the team member feels when interfacing with someone at a higher level.
So glad to hear it -- great to hear from you, and wishing you all the best!
I remember you used to do skips with me. I bombed the first one bc I TOO was nervous and filled it with a status update that I had carefully prepared. At the end you said I didn’t have to do that…it was meant to be a more casual catch up. I was like …”oh!”
Yes! It was conversations like these that made me realize I should describe how I think about these conversations more explicitly up front -- so thank you :)
Great advice Ami!
Wow I wish my leaders could see this post :)