Leadership Meeting Anxiety?

Question

I'm not sure if I've just been programmed by my startup background to have my stomach drop whenever someone on the leadership team puts a meeting on my calendar, but I can't help it.

Our Director of Sales slacked me earlier this week saying that our CSO wants to have a casual "how are things going" chat with people. We set a time and it's coming up later today.

Even with the context of it being a casual conversation, I can't get over the steady hum of anxiety from 1 on 1s with leadership at previous employers.

Anyone else experience this? Any advice on how to get over it?

Accepted Answer

Pretty natural feeling, you just have to try to not overthink it.

Answer

Yeah we went through that a few weeks ago, first time I ever heard of a "stay interview" but whatever. I gave them the honesty I deserve and went with it.

Answer

Just had the meeting. It was just as they said: a casual catch up chat. He asked how I'm feeling in the role, any specific challenges he could help talk me through, etc. It was actually a really positive and educational experience.

With all that said, I was still sh*tting myself in the time between the 10 minute calendar notification and the meeting itself.

Answer

I think it has to do more with the tone of your org's culture. If any of my leadership, even our head of sales or CEO put time on my calendar, they've always been transparent and personable.

Answer

Normal reaction! I use that thrill of fear to make sure I'm prepared and I'm sharp. It can be a tool. :)

Answer

I have the same issue and haven’t found a cure. Even when I know I am a top performer on the team I think of the one thing I did wrong and leadership wants to talk it over

Answer

Yes and usually it’s a good sign that your leadership is engaged and wants to attack problems you see bc you’re “in it” every day. Keep it casual but always have a few topics you want to ask questions on or make solutions to fix. I totally feel you though - I’ve worked in truly toxic environments where those 1:1s are essentially just PIP steps/bash sessions.

Answer

I hear you, happens to me too. How well do you know your direct manager? Last time this happened, I called her on her personal cell and asked her what the deal was.

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It’s natural.

Answer

how did it go @punishedlad?

Answer

I’m like you, get super anxious over this type of thing. Usually it turns out to be nothing, but it just the way I’m wired I guess. I’m glad the call turned out positive.

Answer

Talk to them as your peers. You are the expert in your field. Good management will appreciate it.

Answer

I have regular 1:1s with my VP, but if the President suddenly wanted a meeting I’d probably freak a bit. I would treat it like a discovery call tbh

punishedlad

Leadership Meeting Anxiety?

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