What do you think?

When shadowing a CEO, the calibre of meetings you attend is incredibly high. There are people with decades of industry experience, specialised knowledge and sharp intuition. If they express an interest in your opinion at any point, it’s important to turn what might be a daunting experience into an opportunity to have your voice heard.

1. Know why they are asking you

Given that they are the experts, you are unlikely to tell them something new about their field. Think about what you bring to the table. For example:

• Do you represent the type of customer they are hoping to sell to?

• Are you a pair of fresh eyes to look at the situation?

• Are they just being polite?

Knowing why they are asking you helps to make your opinion relevant.

2. Be concise

Meeting time is valuable. If others have said what you’re thinking already, highlight your agreement. Present any other ideas in a constructive and useful manner. It should be clear that you have been listening actively, rather than waiting to speak.

3. Be confident

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when surrounded by people who seem to know much more than you. Acknowledge the gap, but don’t apologise for it. So long as your thoughts are presented with humility, they have a chance of being listened to.

Note: this article was written in October 2011 during a year long placement with the New Entrepreneurs Foundation. Originally published atushmanef.tumblr.com.