Can I Re-Engage Closed Lost Opportunities?
Hi Joe, I’m curious if there’s ever a time when it makes sense to reach out to closed lost opportunities. Our team just launched some new features,...
READ MOREHi Jo,
Yesterday, my team held a meeting to discuss a campaign that I’m managing without inviting me. Nothing seems to have changed as a result of that meeting, though I can’t help but feel uneasy. Surely my input would have been valuable? I haven’t heard any complaints about my work, so I’m not sure how to interpret this.
How do I make sense of what’s happened? How can I address this in a professional manner?
Thanks,
Frozen Out Franki.
Franki, it’s only natural that you’re concerned. Having experienced a similar situation, I know how easy it is to think the worst when you’re not in the loop. At this stage, try not to make assumptions about your team’s intentions; we all make mistakes, and this being your project, they could’ve assumed you were invited.
Test the waters first by speaking to someone from that meeting who you trust. Be direct, but innocuous; ask what the meeting was about and if there’s anything you can help with. If they ask for your input or acknowledge that someone forgot to include you, you’re probably safe to let it go. Otherwise, look out for patterns of exclusion and questionable odd behavior.
Is your boss talking to your direct reports rather than you? Did the last weekly marketing meeting happen without you? Are other campaigns or budgets moving forward without your involvement? Write down all your concerns—if the list is getting big, it’s probably time to have a chat with your boss.
Even if you have a great relationship, this can be an uncomfortable conversation to have. We all want to do well at work, so criticism can sting to hear, but it’s also a test of character. The way you deal with this can show your boss and team that despite the issue at hand, you’re someone they trust. Here’s how I recommend you approach this:
Hi Joe, I’m curious if there’s ever a time when it makes sense to reach out to closed lost opportunities. Our team just launched some new features,...
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