What is the best approach to influencing C-suite executives in a business strategy decision?

As Product Marketers, our primary role is to act as ambassadors and influence other departments with customer and market insights. I wonder how this dynamic changes when the PMM is a VP and the ‘other departments’ are the C-suite. I’m curious about how deep and challenging these conversations might be.

Answer

3 Answers

Influencing the C-Suite

Jeremy Wood

Adobe Head of GTM Strategy, APAC & Japan • 1y

I've definitely been in this exact situation where my key stakeholders were the C-suite (my boss was the CMO for starters!) I don't think much has to change to what you've said, as PMM's we continue to be the guardians of the message and ensuring things like product:market fit are optimal and our value propositions to our customers are clear and differentiated. Ensuring thats well understood across different departments doesn't change. A good example is working with sales leaders (including Head ...Read More

2,165 Views
Sarah Din

Former SVP of Product Marketing at Quickbase • 1y

To influence C-suite executives in a business strategy decision, focus on aligning your goals with theirs. Understand their priorities and show how your ideas support company objectives. Use clear, data-driven insights to back up your points and keep your communication concise and focused on high-level outcomes. Build relationships by being proactive and transparent. When you're a VP, conversations with the C-suite can be deep and challenging because you're discussing strategic, big-picture idea ...Read More

956 Views
Kuber Sharma

UiPath Sr. Director of Product Marketing | Formerly Salesforce, Tableau, Microsoft • 1mo

The most important thing to understand about influencing a C-suite business strategy decision is that you're not trying to win an argument. You're trying to help an executive make a decision they feel confident standing behind. Those are different objectives, and they require different approaches. Start by understanding their existing frame, not replacing it. Before you try to influence a strategic decision, spend time understanding what beliefs and data points are already shaping the executive' ...Read More

154 Views