The Framework: Impact – Insight – IntentThe key to being seen as strategic when you are already doing the work is translating that work into value leadership cares about. I want to give you a simple framework to help you do that. I call it the 3-I. Essentially it’s a 3-part pitch you can use in exec meetings, skip-levels, and performance reviews. Use it to shift perception and sound like a strategic partner, not just a reliable executor. Here’s how it works: 1. Impact – What value are you delivering?This is the outcome of your work. Not the activity. “We rolled out a new onboarding process that cut ramp time by 30% and reduced support tickets by half.”
Don’t list tasks. Show the business value. 2. Insight – What patterns are you seeing?This is where strategy comes in. What’s behind the data? What trend are you spotting? “One thing I’m noticing: even though ramp time is faster, new hires still struggle with internal tools. That’s costing us productivity in the first 60 days.”
Now you’re showing foresight. You’re scanning the horizon. 3. Intent – What are you building or learning next?Executives want to see growth and proactive thinking. Show where you’re headed. “So I’m working with RevOps to map out where the friction is and simplify the tool stack.”
You’re not just solving what’s in front of you. You’re shaping what’s next. What Makes This PowerfulThis structure signals strategy without sounding like a know-it-all. It does three important things: Highlights your impact (you’re not just busy. You’re valuable.) Reveals strategic thinking (you see more than your to-do list.) Shows you’re proactive and growth-minded (you’re building the future, not just reacting to the present.) This is what executives do. And when you speak like this, people start to see you as one. Put it Into Action: Craft your 3-IBefore your next 1:1 or senior stakeholder meeting, ask yourself: Impact - What value did I create in the last 30 days?
- How did it move the needle for the business or team?
Insight - What patterns, risks, or opportunities am I seeing?
- What might a senior leader not be seeing that I do?
Intent - What’s one thing I’m actively building, exploring, or learning to make us better?
- How does it tie back or align with leadership goals?
Write out your answers. Then tighten them into a few sentences using the Impact–Insight–Intent format I shared above. This is your new elevator pitch. This is how you show you're ready for the next level. |
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