Suggestions on what to say to boss who dominates an introductory meeting: I will be participating in a zoom call with my boss to meet a new CIO for which we provide consulting services.

Anonymous

August 2,2022 at 10:19PM UTC

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Suggestions on what to say to boss who dominates an introductory meeting: I will be participating in a zoom call with my boss to meet a new CIO for which we provide consulting services. The existing CTO will also be on the zoom call. Today, I reviewed with my boss the projects underway, the services we provide and accomplishments to date. Based upon previous experiences with her, she dominates the call and at times does not give me an opportunity to speak - she rambles on and on... you know very "sales-ey". I do not think it is a good idea for her to dominate the meeting. It is not a good reflection on the team that provides the consulting services.

What will the new CTO think? We want to reinforce the advantage of having our consulting firm continue our services. I am the consultant doing all of the work which has maintained our relationship with this client for over 15 years.

I will be meeting with my boss in advance of the zoom call with the CIO to review our Discussion Topics. Do you agree that I should also be given an opportunity to speak? I want to diplomatically state this to her before we meet with the new CTO. Thank you for your input!

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AnonymousAugust 2,2022 at 10:31PM UTC
You could talk to her about it, but the decision of whether or not she wants to allow it is her decision whether you like it or not.
I would try to approach your boss as humbly as you can and ask if it is okay to give everyone on the team an opportunity to introduce themselves the give a short background on their expertise. If the meeting is a short meeting like 30 min, I can see why there might not be enough time to give you and your other teammates and opportunity to speak more to what you do. However if the meeting is an 1hr+ there might be some wiggle room for him or her to squeeze that in. Just make your ask about the team being able to give a full rounded response to compliment your boss's introduction. It is all about the pitch and delivery. If you make your ask coming across entitled, you may receive blowback.
AnonymousAugust 3,2022 at 6:09PM UTC
Like your suggestion!! Thank you
JenniferAugust 2,2022 at 11:53PM UTC
I didn't entirely follow who the new person is (CIO or CTO), but I don't think it matters for context, so I'm going say it's the old CTO and a new CTO.
I'd approach the topic with something like "Hey, boss. I'm excited about our meeting with new CTO next week. and I've started to think through a game plan for how we can tag team to really illustrate the value we've brought to Client thus far. I think we should definitely hit on [ABCDE topics]. Since you're great at engaging and energizing client leadership, you could handle A and E, and since I have the expertise and detailed familiarity with the projects, I could handle BCD. Since I'll be owning this relationship if they renew, I want to make sure I'm able to demonstrate my knowledge and build new CTO's confidence in me. What are your thoughts on..."
Good luck!
AnonymousAugust 3,2022 at 6:08PM UTC
Your suggestion is excellent!
Thank you so much! and yes, my post was confusing about CIO or CTO .. it is a new CIO... I edited my post. Thanks again
Darlene KeeneAugust 3,2022 at 12:19AM UTC
I say let your BOSS talk … in your pre meeting ,simply ask if there are any key points that she would like for you to discuss . Otherwise, she hired YOU - you’re NOT in competition ( is there more) . Be her wing man and watch the meeting fly!! You do not want to appear divisive in front of others . This will not end well for you. Find a another great moment to throw out ideas and what your role will be in this. You will gain respect and loyalty in the end. Be positive and appropriate!!
AnonymousAugust 3,2022 at 6:12PM UTC
I see your point! Thank you.
JJAugust 3,2022 at 2:53AM UTC
Yes you should be able to speak in meetings. Your boss sounds like a brute. A direct conversation is best but it might not go over well with someone so self centered so be prepared.
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachAugust 3,2022 at 7:13PM UTC
Here's a suggestion: meet with your boss and ask/tell her you would love to take advantage of this opportunity to stretch yourself by leading the majority of the call.
Use it as an opportunity for "professional development" and see what happens./. If she agrees, you can even send her another run of show, giving direct time for her to speak/ introduce herself and then what you will cover and when you'll cover it.
AnonymousAugust 3,2022 at 8:08PM UTC
Like your suggestion... thank you!