I’m currently reading Build: An Unorthodox Guide to Making Things Worth Making by Tony Fadell. In one chapter, the author explains the importance of a company board and how the chief executive should approach and run board meetings. According to Tony Fadell, who worked at Apple as an executive for many years, Steve Jobs was exceptional at these meetings because there were never any negative surprises for the board members and everything went smoothly.
Bill Campbell, a well-known advisor and Apple board director, told Tony Fadell that Steve Jobs accomplished this alignment and tranquility by going to all board members individually before the group meeting to hear concerns and possibly address them.
The approach resonated because it matches my experience, observations, and what I wrote several years ago about influencing others under Socialize ideas in 1:1s:
So, where are decisions made, and how can you influence them in case you are presenting an idea? In one-to-one conversations. One person alone is more likely to speak their mind, and you can hear their concerns, wishes, and goals. If the feedback is valid, you should incorporate it into your idea—you’ll get a better idea, and they’re more likely to approve it later on.