Questions To Ask At A Skip Level Meeting

Let's face it, meetings can be a bit of a drag, but what if you had the chance to sit down with your boss's boss and pick their brain? That's exactly what a skip level meeting is all about. It's like getting to ask your favorite teacher for advice, but instead, it's your higher-up leader who's dishing out the wisdom.

So, why should you care about skip level meetings? Well, for starters, it's a great way to get feedback on your performance and learn about opportunities for growth within the company. Plus, it's a chance to build a relationship with someone who might not be on your daily radar, but can still have a big impact on your career.

Preparation is Key

To make the most of your skip level meeting, you'll want to come prepared with some thoughtful questions. Don't worry, it's not like being on a first date, but you do want to make a good impression. Think about what you want to achieve in your career and what you're curious about, and write down some questions that will help you get there.

For example, you might ask about the company's long-term goals and how you can contribute to them, or what skills you need to develop to take on more responsibility. You could also ask for advice on how to navigate the company's internal politics or how to manage conflicts with colleagues. The key is to be genuine and curious, and not just ask questions for the sake of asking questions.

Another great approach is to ask about your leader's own career path and what they've learned along the way. This can give you valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in the company and how to avoid common pitfalls. Plus, it shows that you're interested in their story and willing to learn from their experiences.

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Remember, the goal of a skip level meeting is to have a conversation, not an interrogation. So, try to ask open-ended questions that encourage discussion and sharing. Avoid yes or no questions, and instead opt for questions that begin with what, how, or why. This will help you get more meaningful and thoughtful responses.

Skip-Level Meeting Q&A: Handling Questions From Senior Leadership

For instance, instead of asking "Are you happy with my performance?", you could ask "What do you think I'm doing well, and where do you see opportunities for growth?". This shows that you're eager to learn and improve, and willing to listen to constructive feedback. And who knows, you might just get some valuable advice or insights that will help you take your career to the next level.

Lastly, don't be afraid to ask follow-up questions or seek clarification on something that's not entirely clear. This shows that you're engaged and interested in the conversation, and willing to dig deeper to get to the bottom of things. And that's exactly what a skip level meeting is all about - having a real conversation, and learning from each other.

In the end, a skip level meeting is a great opportunity to build relationships, gain insights, and learn from someone who's been around the block a few times. So, don't be shy, and don't be afraid to ask questions - it's all part of the fun, and who knows, you might just discover a new mentor or role model in the process.

By being prepared, asking thoughtful questions, and being open to feedback and guidance, you can make the most of your skip level meeting and take your career to new heights. And that's something to get excited about, don't you think? So, go ahead, schedule that meeting, and get ready to learn, grow, and thrive in your career.