When interacting with executives, what is the recommended approach if you don't have an answer?

When interacting with executives, it's important to maintain credibility and trust. If you encounter a question for which you don't have an immediate answer, stating that you will find the answer later demonstrates professionalism and respect for both the inquiry and the individual asking the question. This approach shows that you prioritize accuracy over providing potentially misleading or incorrect information, which can damage your reputation and the organization's credibility.

Additionally, committing to follow up on the inquiry allows you the opportunity to conduct the necessary research, ensuring that the response you provide later is well-informed and accurate. This can help strengthen your relationship with the executives by demonstrating your accountability and commitment to delivering high-quality information.

Offering a fabricated response, changing the subject, or avoiding the question altogether may lead to confusion or indicate a lack of knowledge, undermining your credibility and negatively impacting your ability to engage effectively with the leadership team. By choosing to acknowledge your limits and promising to follow up, you maintain a constructive and professional dialogue.