Most senior leaders who avoid the informal conversations — the individual check-ins, the quiet conversations before a decision needs to be made— aren't doing it because they're lazy or disorganised.

They're doing it because it doesn't feel right.

It feels like politics. Like pre-managing the outcome. Like their work should be strong enough to stand on its own.

And that instinct, as understandable as it is, is quietly costing them.

In this episode, Karen looks at what happens when strong work meets an audience that wasn't brought along and why the leaders who build the most genuine influence are also the most deliberate about their relationships.

In this episode:

• Why a concern raised in private stays manageable — and the same concern raised in public becomes a position
• How your peers are forming a read on you, whether you're actively shaping it or not
• The difference between being politically aware and compromising your integrity
• One reframe and two practical things to do before your next significant ask

If you've ever walked out of a meeting wondering what happened — this episode is worth your time.

Next steps:

Follow Karen on Substack where she writes about power, politics and influence: https://karengombault.substack.com/

Connect with Karen on Linkedin: Karen Gombault | LinkedIn