How can I effectively and authentically network with a senior leader? I keep running into a barrier—it feels like I’m always asking for something and never have anything to offer in return. How do I make the exchange more reciprocal?
Ah yes, the classic networking dilemma—especially when you’re trying to build a connection with someone several levels above you. It’s easy to feel like you’re asking for a favor without having anything to give back. But here’s the good news: You have more to offer than you think.
The most effective networking with senior leaders isn’t transactional—it’s relational. You don’t need a title or a 10-year plan to make a meaningful connection. You just need curiosity, preparation and a little creativity in how you show up.
Let’s break it down:
Start With Preparation
Before you reach out, do your homework. Learn about the leader’s background, interests and career path. Read what they’ve written. Watch that keynote they gave. Knowing what they care about helps you craft a more intentional (and interesting) message.
Instead of a vague, “I’d love to connect,” try something like: “I appreciated your panel comments on leading during change—especially your point about decision-making with limited information. That really resonated with where I am in my role right now. Would you be open to sharing how you built confidence in that skill?”
A thoughtful question makes you stand out—and shows respect for their time.
Find the Connection Point
Networking is a two-way street, but the road doesn’t have to be perfectly paved. Look for overlap: a shared alma mater, mutual connections, a conference you both attended, or a topic they’ve posted about that interests you. Even something small, like engaging with their content on LinkedIn, can help create a sense of familiarity.
A former colleague once reached out to a senior leader she admired after reading her interview in a trade magazine. She wrote a short message referencing something that resonated—and not only got a reply but ended up invited to a lunch-and-learn. All from one well-placed comment.
Still Wondering What You Can Offer? Here’s Your List:
- A Fresh Perspective. You see things from a different vantage point. Senior leaders aren’t always close to the day-to-day. Your observations—about customer feedback, team culture, or small inefficiencies—can be gold.
- Help Behind the Scenes. Offer to assist with research, prep for presentations, or even gather data. One early-career professional I know offered to help her vice president summarize employee engagement survey comments. It saved the vice president hours—and gave her insight into how leadership decisions were made.
- Curated Info. Come across an article or trend that’s relevant to something they’re working on? Send it with a short note: “Thought this might be useful as you explore that new market opportunity.”
- Connections in Unexpected Places. Even if you’re early in your career, you might have access to communities, networks or rising talent that could be valuable. Don’t underestimate who you know.
- Constructive Feedback. When done respectfully, feedback is a gift. Leaders want to know how new initiatives are landing. Just make sure your feedback is focused, thoughtful and tied to shared goals.
- Participation in Cross-Functional Work. Volunteering for projects that span teams or departments gives you a broader view—and can make you more visible to senior leaders who appreciate cross-collaboration.
- Tech Know-How. Comfortable with a new app, collaboration tool or platform? Offer to do a quick demo. I’ve seen more than one senior leader have a lightbulb moment thanks to a junior employee introducing them to a productivity hack.
- Event Support. Help coordinate a workshop, team meeting, or speaker series. Your effort can ease their workload and help showcase your organizational savvy.
- Appreciation and Curiosity. A simple “thank you for your leadership on [X]—it’s made a difference in my work” can go a long way. And don’t be afraid to ask them how they got through a challenge you’re facing. That’s not taking—it’s inviting them to reflect and share.
Bottom Line
Networking with senior leaders doesn’t mean you have to dazzle with credentials or ask for a big favor. It’s about starting a conversation rooted in respect, relevance and curiosity. Show that you’re thinking critically, eager to learn and willing to contribute. Over time, those connections grow into relationships—and those relationships can open doors you didn’t even know existed. You’ve got this!
To Submit a Question
If you have a question for Julia, simply submit your question to julia.lazzara@leadingnow.biz. While we can’t promise she will be able to answer all of the questions she receives, our goal is to provide you with the insights and advice you need to have a successful career.
Julia Lazzara is the president of Leading NOW, an organization shaping the future of workplace dynamics by advocating women’s advancement and engaging male allies to bring gender balance to leadership. Leading NOW is a founding partner and educational content provider for CSP’s C-Store Women’s Event (CSW). Reach her at julia.lazzara@leadingnow.biz.
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