Hey there, it’s Jill!

In a recent post, I shared The 4-Part Networking Framework That Helped Me Change Careers, which received incredible engagement from readers (thank you!). One of the top follow-up questions was:

“How do I approach networking with executives?”

In this newsletter, I’ll share key strategies I’ve developed from nearly a decade of connecting with senior leaders across multiple industries. Whether you are:

• Looking for your next opportunity

• Seeking a mentor or sponsor

• Or simply expanding your professional network

...this post will help you navigate executive coffee chats with clarity and confidence. At the end, I’ll also share a personal reflection that may ease some of the hesitation you might feel.

Let’s dive in!

Executives… Who Are They, Really?

Just like preparing for a presentation, understanding your audience is essential when networking with executives.

While every leader is unique, in my experience, most share three key traits:

These aren’t barriers — they’re signals. When understood and respected, these traits can actually help you build trust with executives.

How to Prepare Before the Chat (with Checklist)

Preparation is everything (You’ve heard me say this before!) Begin by researching:

• Their LinkedIn

• Any YouTube interviews, talks, or podcasts they’ve been part of

• Their website, articles, or public writing

These insights help you show up informed — and respectful of their time.

Here’s a structure I’ve found incredibly effective when talking with executives:

💡 Pro Tip: How Will They Know How to Help?

You might be thinking:

“Jill, how do I tell an executive how they can support me?”

Here’s the thing: if you’ve done the preparation and articulate your goals clearly, you don’t have to. They’ll know.

Executives are expert problem-solvers. Show up with preparation, intention and structure — and trust that they’ll connect the dots.

During the Chat: Be Curious and Engaged

Once your introduction is shared, shift into active listening mode.

As I shared in the previous post, here’s the golden formula for a great conversation:

• Genuine Interest + Active Listening + Prepared Response

This is even more important with senior leaders. They value curiosity, energy, and humility. When you show them you’ve done your research, it builds instant respect.

Ask good questions. and don’t be afraid to share your perspective — executives often enjoy learning from emerging talent, too!

What to Do After the Chat

1. Send a Thank You Note

Send it within 24 hours (can set a email reminder). Keep it specific and sincere.

2. If There’s Mutual Interest…

Include a few materials in your follow-up email:

✅ Your updated résumé

✅ A reminder of your short-to-mid-term goals

✅ Your top 2–3 strengths or professional assets

A well-crafted email can go a long way. Make it easy for them to remember who you are, and why you’re someone to watch. You want to be top of the pile when an opportunity comes!

Executives Are Also Human

It’s normal to feel nervous, I've been there. There has been times where I thought I could have done a better job structuring my thoughts when connecting with executives - The pressure of saying the “right” thing can feel intense sometimes.

If it helps to set up the positive mindset before the chat, here’s what I’ve learned after years of networking with senior leaders:

• Executives care. Yes, they’re busy — but many remember what it felt like to be in your shoes. Offering guidance is often deeply rewarding to them.

• Executives value potential. Building high-performing teams is part of their job. When they see someone curious, prepared, and growth-driven — they notice.

• Executives are veterans. Think of them as experienced soldiers who want to train the next generation, not gatekeepers who want to keep you out.

They’ve fought career battles — and often want to help others rise, too 🎉!

Before We Wrap Up…

Here is a checklist to prepare you for the next executive coffee chat ☺️:

If you haven’t seen the previous post => The 4-Part Networking Framework That Helped Me Change Careers, please check it out. It’s a comprehensive and detailed framework for networking session, which would complement this post nicely.

Hope it helps! If you haven’t already done so, please subscribe. More tips on career growth and mindset advancement coming soon. See you next week!

— Jill

Founder of Anchor Growth Newsletter