Preparing for Growth: How to Pitch Your Next Big Idea

You’ve clarified your mission, streamlined your role, and let go of distractions.

Now comes the exciting part: Growth!

In my recent posts, we’ve talked about:
• Defining your professional mission
• Organizing your responsibilities around that mission
• Letting go of tasks that don’t align

Once that’s done, it’s time to come up for air, look around, and grow. But how do you approach your boss about growth opportunities, aspirations, or new ideas?

There are usually two scenarios:
1. You know exactly what you’d like to propose.
2. You have an idea but need your boss’ input to shape it.

Today, let’s focus on the first scenario.

1. Alignment Comes First
Be sure your idea matches your boss’ vision and the department’s current priorities. For example, if budgets are being cut, it’s probably not the best time to ask for funding for a new program.

2. Be Clear, Succinct, and Mostly Listen
Present your vision, rationale, plan, stakeholders, resources, and potential ROI. But just as important: listen. Your boss will have valuable questions, insights, and advice. Aim to leave with clear next steps.

3. Communicate Before, During, and After
Set the stage: let your boss know in advance what the meeting is about.
Respect their time: they may bring others in or adjust the format.
Follow up: send a thank-you note and keep them updated as you make progress.

Remember: when you’re building something new, you represent your boss, your department, and your colleagues. You’re building trust and a network as well as a program.

Next time, we’ll talk about how to create a program from the ground up. Until then, keep imagining, keep aligning, and keep growing.

I'll leave you with a quote: “Fortune favors the prepared mind.” Louis Pasteur