How to Become a Chief of Staff in 2025
The Chief of Staff role has become one of the most exciting and dynamic positions in today’s professional landscape. Whether you're looking to elevate your career, step into a more strategic leadership role, or pivot into something new, becoming a Chief of Staff in 2025 is a goal worth pursuing.
If you’re wondering how to get there, you’re not alone.
Many talented professionals—executive assistants, project managers, and operations leaders—are asking the same question. Let’s break it down step by step, so you can chart your course with confidence.
1. Understand the Role
Before you take the leap, it’s crucial to know what being a Chief of Staff entails. A Chief of Staff is more than an executive assistant or operations lead. You’re a strategic partner, a trusted advisor, and often the glue that holds an organization together. Your responsibilities might include:
Managing organizational priorities
Driving key projects or initiatives
Facilitating communication between leadership and teams
Acting as the “right hand” to a CEO or executive
It’s a role that requires adaptability, strategic thinking, and leadership skills.
2. Evaluate Your Experience
Many aspiring Chiefs of Staff don’t realize they already have transferable skills. If you’ve excelled as an executive assistant, project manager, or operations lead, chances are you’ve been doing parts of the job already—just without the title.
Ask yourself:
Can I manage complex projects from start to finish?
Do I have strong communication and organizational skills?
Am I good at anticipating needs and solving problems before they arise?
If you can answer “yes,” you’re further along than you think!
3. Strengthen Your Leadership Skills
The Chief of Staff role is about leadership—often without the authority of a formal title. Start building your leadership toolkit now:
Learn to Influence Without Authority: Hone your ability to guide decisions and build consensus.
Think Strategically: Practice zooming out and seeing the bigger picture, even when you’re deep in the details.
Develop Emotional Intelligence: Strong relationships are at the core of this role.
Pro tip: Volunteer for stretch assignments that push you outside your comfort zone.
4. Tailor Your Resume and LinkedIn
Your resume and LinkedIn profile should tell the story of someone ready to step into a strategic leadership role. Highlight achievements like:
Leading cross-functional projects
Improving processes that saved time or money
Building relationships across teams or departments
This is also where certification programs, like Elevation Chief of Staff Training, can set you apart by signaling your commitment and readiness for the role. Chief of Staff certification gives hiring managers the confidence that you’re someone who goes above and beyond to excel and you have what it takes.
5. Position Yourself as a Strategic Partner
If you’re looking to pivot internally, begin by demonstrating value in your current role. Position yourself as someone who already thinks and acts like a Chief of Staff by:
Anticipating the needs of leadership and offering solutions.
Taking initiative to improve team workflows or processes.
Asking strategic questions that align with the organization’s goals.
Executives often promote people who make their lives easier and their organizations run smoother.
6. Invest in Yourself
Stepping into a Chief of Staff role is an investment in your future. Consider enrolling in Elevation’s Chief of Staff certification program. We’ve helped hundreds of professionals around the world pivot into this rewarding career.
Remember, the best investment you can make is in yourself.
7. Stay Inspired
The path to becoming a Chief of Staff isn’t always linear, but it’s worth it. Each step you take brings you closer to a role where you can lead, strategize, and make a meaningful impact. Your next career chapter is waiting for you to write it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Chief of Staff
Q: What’s the typical career path to Chief of Staff?
A: Many Chiefs of Staff come from roles like executive assistant, operations manager, or project manager. What sets them apart is their ability to step into a strategic leadership mindset.
Q: Do I need a certification to become a Chief of Staff?
A: While not mandatory, certification programs can provide a competitive advantage and help you hit the ground running, feeling confident in your abilities to ace the role.
Q: How long does it take to become a Chief of Staff?
A: The timeline varies depending on your experience and readiness. The Elevation course itself is self paced but typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete.
What’s Next?
If this sparked your interest, let’s keep the conversation going. What’s your biggest question about becoming a Chief of Staff? Email us at hello@elevationchiefofstaff.com anytime. We’d love to help you on your journey.
Here’s to your success in 2025 and beyond! 🚀
