Ask HR: How Do I Confidently Speak with Higher-Ups at My Company?

SHRM President and Chief Executive Officer Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, answers HR questions each week for USA Today.

Do you have an HR or work-related question you’d like him to answer? Submit it here.

I occasionally brief our senior management, but I get nervous when speaking to higher-level managers and executives at my job. I worry I'll get fired if I make a mistake or say something wrong. How can I address my anxiety when talking to higher-ups?—Jameer

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP: The anxiety that comes when briefing senior management is a common concern. I commend you for actively seeking ways to address it. Here are some strategies to help:

1. Know your audience. Understand the priorities, expectations and interests of the senior managers you’re briefing. If you need additional clarification, consult with your manager for insights. Knowing your audience will help you tailor your communication to resonate with their concerns. Taking time to get to know your audience personally before and after the presentation also helps humanize them and further reduces anxiety.
2. Organize your thoughts. Define the primary goal of your brief and outline key points to keep you focused. Visual aids can convey information effectively and maintain the audience's attention. A well-organized presentation can boost your confidence.
3. Practice, practice, practice. Practice your presentation multiple times to familiarize yourself with the content. Research topics thoroughly and anticipate potential questions from your audience. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in delivering your message.
4. Take deep breaths. Incorporate deep-breathing exercises and positive affirmations to calm your nerves before the briefing. Remind yourself of the preparation you’ve done, and replace negative thoughts with self-assurance.
5. Ask for feedback. Share your presentation with colleagues or mentors in advance. Honest opinions can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement. Record yourself to evaluate your body language and tone, making adjustments as needed. If possible, seek feedback from senior managers directly. Knowing you’re delivering the information they need will reinforce your confidence. 
6. Talk to your manager. If you’re worried about making a mistake and fear potential consequences, have an open and honest conversation with your manager. They can provide guidance, reassurance and support, helping to alleviate your concerns.
7. Tap HR support. If anxiety persists despite your efforts, reach out to your HR department. They may offer additional tools, resources or even professional development opportunities to help you manage anxiety and enhance your presentation skills.

Remember, being anxious means you care and want to get it right. Channel your nervous energy into your preparation. When you are primed to deliver an engaging and informative presentation that the audience values, it will boost your confidence and greatly reduce your anxiety so you can successfully navigate briefings to senior management. Taking proactive steps and seeking support will contribute to your professional growth.

My career in industrial product design has veered into sales and account management positions, where I have been for the last four and a half years. I am contemplating a return to product design. What should I consider in returning to my former career? —Derek

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP: Considering a return to your former career in industrial product design is a significant decision, and careful preparation is key to ensuring a successful transition. Here are some essential considerations:

1. Reflect on motivation: Reflect on your motivation for returning to industrial product design. Consider the aspects you enjoyed and disliked in your previous roles. Assess how returning to product design aligns with your long-term goals, aspirations, work/life balance and financial considerations.
2. Stay informed: Since your last product design position, the industry may have evolved, incorporating new technologies like artificial intelligence. Stay informed about the latest trends, tools and practices in industrial product design. Professional associations, such as the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), and online networks like LinkedIn can provide valuable insights.
3. Fill knowledge gaps: Identify any gaps in your knowledge and skills and proactively address them through training, research and networking. Online courses, webcasts, podcasts, articles and networking events can help you stay updated, speak the industry’s latest language, and understand how technological advancements and new practices have shaped the field.
4. Research current job landscape: Explore current jobs boards to understand the landscape of industrial product design positions. Familiarize yourself with the latest job duties and pay ranges. Use this information to tailor your resume and cover letters, emphasizing how your experience in sales and account management has prepared you for this career change.
5. Highlight transferable skills: Showcase the skills and experiences gained in your sales and account management roles that are transferable to industrial product design. Emphasize accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to adapt, communicate effectively and understand client needs—all valuable in the design process.
6. Seek a mentor or coach: Consider seeking guidance from a mentor or career coach who can provide support and insights as you realign your skills and abilities. Their expertise can be invaluable in navigating any difficulties related to returning to your previous niche.
7. Be prepared for adjustments: Recognize that there may be challenges in transitioning back to product design. Be open to learning; seek feedback from your professional network, recruiters and interviewers; and adjust your approach as needed.
8. Continuous learning: Approach each step of the process as a learning experience. Request feedback, consider suggestions and adapt accordingly. Continuous learning and improvement will contribute to your success in pursuing a passion that aligns with your career goals.

Best of luck as you embark on this journey to return to industrial product design. May it bring you fulfillment and success in your chosen career path.