How To Connect with CEOs: 3 Easy Steps

Today we’re diving into a crucial topic: how to get a response from CEOs in just three easy steps. We all know breaking through to a CEO can be tough—they are overwhelmingly busy and responsible for numerous high-impact tasks. But don’t worry! In this post, I’m sharing three proven steps to increase your chances of getting noticed, receiving a response, and setting up a meeting with them.

Step 1: Utilize Optimal Timing

Schedule Messages for Early Morning or Late Afternoon

CEOs often start their days very early to get a head start before the day’s tasks roll in. It's common for them to be at work before 8 a.m. and continue working until 7 p.m. or later. To increase your chances of getting noticed, you should schedule your emails to arrive first thing in the morning. This way, your message will be sitting at the top of their inbox when they log in. Alternatively, consider reaching out during the evenings, weekends, or Friday afternoons—times when they may have fewer immediate tasks and more mental space to read your message.

Mix Up Communication Channels

Don't just rely on email; diversify your outreach. Reach out via LinkedIn, email, and even make a phone call. By mixing up the channels, you maximize your chances of getting noticed.

Step 2: Craft Brief, Personalized Messages

Keep It Brief

CEOs don’t have the time to wade through lengthy emails. Make sure your message is concise and to the point.

Include Personal Touches

Show that you’ve done your homework by mentioning something specific you discovered about them or their company online. CEOs take great pride in their company’s successes. Reference an article about a new product launch, a relevant news story, or an achievement. For instance, if you read about them winning an award or being listed among the top fastest-growing companies, congratulate them. Personalizing your message greatly increases your credibility and likelihood of receiving a response.

Example Message: I noticed your recent initiative on [specific topic]. Our company has helped similar businesses achieve similar goals and we believe we can bring value to your strategic initiatives.”

Step 3: Align Your Offering With Their Priorities

Research and Relevance

Use your research to tie your offering directly to one of their strategic initiatives or key priorities. Clearly articulate how you can provide value based on something you know is important to them.

Focus on Value

Focus on how your solution aligns with their goals. For instance, “I saw that sales growth is a priority for you. Our company has helped similar businesses increase their sales by up to 20% in the first quarter. I’d love to discuss how we could help achieve your sales goals.”

CEOs aim to grow their companies, increase efficiency, differentiate in the market, and secure future success. If you can demonstrate that you might help achieve these objectives, they’ll likely regard it as their duty to hear you out or refer you to the relevant decision-maker.

Recap: Three Easy Steps to Connect with CEOs

1. Utilize Optimal Timing: Schedule your messages for early morning or late afternoon to increase visibility.

2. Craft Brief, Personalized Messages: Keep it short and include a personal touch.

3. Align Your Offering With Their Priorities: Use your research to make a compelling, relevant pitch.

Finally, remember: if you can succinctly demonstrate value and catch them when they’re most available, you’ll have the best chance of getting a response and securing that important meeting.

You can download the meeting hack I use to secure next steps in meetings within 5 minutes here: Meeting Hack

Keep up to date with my upcoming book covering the full sales cycle here: Andrew Barbuto Waiting List

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Until next time, remember: if you’re not helping, you’re not selling!