1. Increase Your "Leader Exposure Hours" (80–100h Rule)

Leaders trust people they see often.

Research and real-world patterns show that a people need roughly 80–100 hours of cumulative exposure to start feeling like you are familiar, reliable, and trustworthy.

This exposure doesn't have to be formal. It can come from:

• Regular meetings
• Cross-team syncs
• Grabbing coffee or lunch
• Asking for light mentorship
• Joining volunteer events
• Being present at company-organized activities
• Offering help during high-stakes moments

Goal:

Increase the number of "surface area moments" where leaders can naturally see you, recognize you, and get familiar with your presence.

2. Use the 4W Communication Framework from Stanford Professor Matt Abrahams

Everyone wants leaders’ attention so you must be extremely concise.

Follow this rule:

Always put your update before anyone asks (Slack or email) using the 4W structure

1. What is the current situation?