Quick reference: the skip-level opener deck
Recall strong opening lines and question types for effective skip-level conversations.
What should the first 30 seconds of a skip-level accomplish? Reduce audit fear and establish the real purpose of the conversation. Name what the meeting is not, why you are doing it, and how you will handle what you hear. Which opener is stronger? The stronger opener names the work and purpose, not the manager as the object of inquiry. “Is this basically a performance review of my manager?” The person enters guarded and wants to know whether the meeting is safe. “No. This isn’t a performance review. I’m here to understand your work and make sure leadership stays close…
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