Return On Minute

There comes a time in every executive’s life when they realize that they can no longer “do it” by themselves. Even with a high-performing leadership team there are certain initiatives that continue to be important but fall to the wayside because there are only 24 hours in a day.

The Big Deal

I have interviewed dozens of executives from Presidents to CMOs to SVPs and CVPs. The highest performing executives work not only on themselves, but also hire a Chief of Staff – a force multiplier – someone what can enhance the effectiveness of the leader.

Every executive looking to increase their impact agrees that in order to scale they need a Chief of Staff (CoS) with these seven skills.

1. Relationship Building: This is the main superpower of a high-performing Chief of Staff. Your CoS is one who drives impact through influence. They do this by building and maintaining positive relationships with the executive, senior leadership, and key stakeholders. This skill also involves the ability to lead, mentor, and work effectively with other staffers at every level.
2. Ability to Prioritize: Ensuring that the most important and time-sensitive matters are addressed efficiently, and critical objectives are met are key to effective leadership.  Without this teams can delve into low impact activities which can lead to employee dissatisfaction.
3. Strategic Thinking and Planning: The CoS’s ability to plan and execute strategic initiatives and align business objectives (aka see around corners) will help ensure long-term success.
4. Project Management: Core to the Chief of Staff role is the ability to plan, execute, and oversee various projects and initiatives, ensuring they are completed successfully and on time.
5. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Adaptability and the ability to work in ambiguous or rapidly changing environments along with problem-solving skills are also crucial for addressing complex issues and driving solutions.
6. Communication Skills: This comes in a few different forms.  First is being able to communicate and influence senior leaders. The second is to have proficient writing skills to help the executive communicate internally and externally.  
7. Discretion and Confidentiality: Acting as a trusted advisor is often the unwritten role of a CoS. It’s imperative they are able to maintain the trust of the executive along with maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information and handling it with care.

Bottomline: Hiring a Chief of Staff with vital skills from relationship building to strategic thinking is a transformative factor in achieving exceptional business growth, personal advancement, and maximizing your Return on Minute.

Image by Rosy from Bad Homburg / Germany from Pixabay