Candid Conversations among CEOs

Before the holidays, Anne Szostak of Szostak Partners asked me to co-host an evening of authentic discussion about leading in today’s turbulent times. We would invite the most senior women executives here in Rhode Island.

Fast forward to the event last night. Anne definitely had her fingers on the pulse because the turnout was wonderful. Strong, accomplished women shared wisdom about how they are leading their organizations through these tough times.

What, you might be wondering, does this have to do with networking? 3 things right off the top of my mind:

1. Many of the CEOs and senior executives knew some of the women who came, but no one knew everyone. The evening created a great opportunity to forge new relationships. Those who came were enriched by what they learned from and about the others, affirmed by the responses to the strategies they discussed and informed by the perceptions of others. Networking is about both the Give and the Get!

2. You don’t have to join a group to strengthen and extend your network, you can convene one. Don’t be shy. Partner-up and gather a group of women for meaningful, authentic conversation. Anne and I were joined by the Laurie White, President of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce. The 3 organizations made for a robust and diverse list of guests.

3. Nurture your network. Those in attendance asked for contact information. We compiled a list of attendees and sent it out with a summary of the wisdom that was shared in the large group wrap-up. Every contact is an opportunity to add value. In this case, the contacts AND the shared wisdom were value-added.

If you’re wondering about what was shared, here are some of the gems:

• “You can’t shrink your way to greatness.” Balance short term survival tactics with positioning for the future.
• Your customers lead and own your brand – find your customers’ new needs and create a new value proposition.
• Not all on your team know how to craft and deliver tough news with a dose of hope. Help them craft their messages. For Executive Lessons from the Inaugural Address check out my LeadingWomenblog.

Network ON!
By Susan Colantuono