According to the latest report from McKinsey & Company, women hold just 29% of C-suite positions in publicly traded companies. While that number may seem discouraging at first glance, let it empower you instead. Because just like securing a coveted reservation at an exclusive brunch spot, rising to the executive ranks requires intention, preparation, and grace.
Think about it — at a high-end brunch, the seating is limited, the hours are short, and the menu may be minimal. Yet none of those limitations deter you. Why? Because you understand that the experience is worth the price of entry. The ambiance, the company, the conversation, and the carefully crafted details make every moment valuable, even if it’s just for a short time.
The same mindset applies to navigating your ascent from brunch table conversations to boardroom leadership. The quality of your interactions, the way you read a room, and the conversations you initiate, or join can shape your professional trajectory.
Here are a few key etiquette strategies to help you master conversations that move you closer to your next promotion:
1. READ THE ROOM LIKE A PRO
At brunch or in the boardroom, timing and awareness are everything. Observe body language, energy levels, and who holds the room’s attention. Know when to chime in, when to listen, and when to pivot the conversation to something more meaningful or strategic.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the side conversations — sometimes the most valuable opportunities are in the margins, not the spotlight.
2. PRACTICE ACTIVE LISTENING
People remember how you made them feel, not just what you said. Listen with genuine interest, ask thoughtful follow-up questions, and avoid the temptation to fill every silence. Engaging attentively signals confidence, emotional intelligence, and leadership readiness.
Pro Tip: Use phrases like “That’s an interesting perspective — can you share more about how you approached that?” to keep conversations engaging and memorable.
3. NAME-DROP GRACEFULLY
Mentioning names in a conversation can open doors — but only when done tactfully. Instead of boasting about connections, weave names into relevant, value- driven stories or lessons you’ve learned from those individuals.
Pro Tip: Position name-dropping as gratitude or shared learning. For example: “I once heard [Executive’s Name] share a great piece of advice on leadership that stuck with me…”
Final Thought
Whether you’re savoring brunch at a sunlit café or presenting in a glass-walled boardroom, the essence is the same — it’s about being intentional with your presence, your words, and your connections. Limited seats should never deter you. Instead, let them sharpen your strategy, deepen your conversations, and remind you that you’re not just seeking a seat — you’re meant
to lead the table.
Stephanie Hancock, MAIOP is the Owner of Career Rise, LLC a career consulting firm that specializes in Career Coaching and Professional Development. She is a seasoned Human Resources Professional with over 15 years of experience, a Certified DISC Consultant, Real Colors Facilitator, Certified John Maxwell Team Trainer, Speaker, and Coach.
