how to become a chief of staff

Module 1: Introduction

The Importance of the Chief of Staff Within an Organization

  • Understand the critical role a Chief of Staff plays in enhancing executive productivity and organizational alignment. Discover how Chiefs of Staff serve as the right-hand person to CEOs, facilitating communication and ensuring that strategic goals are met.

The Levels of the Role

  • Explore the various levels and scopes of the Chief of Staff role across different organizations. Learn how the responsibilities and expectations can vary from one company to another and what it means to be a Chief of Staff in small vs. large organizations, public vs. private, non-profit vs. for-profit, etc.

Module 2: Roles & Responsibilities

Trusted Advisor

  • Chiefs of Staff provide strategic advice and support to the CEO or other executive team member. In this lesson you’ll develop skills to offer insights and recommendations that drive decision-making and strategy formulation.

Gatekeeper

  • Manage access to the CEO or executive team member you’re supporting, ensuring that their time is used effectively. Gain techniques for prioritizing meetings and facilitating communications to maximize their productivity. This lesson also covers how to manage any friction that may arise from serving in the gatekeeper capacity.

External Liaison

  • Act as a representative for the organization in external communications and relationships. Understand how to build and maintain strong partnerships with key stakeholders, clients, and partners.

Project Manager

  • Oversee and drive key projects and initiatives from inception to completion. Master project management tools and methodologies to ensure timely and successful project delivery.

Module 3: Soft Skills & Competencies

Leadership and Influence

  • Develop the ability to lead and influence without direct authority. Learn how to build trust, motivate teams, and drive change through effective leadership techniques.

Strategic Thinking

  • Enhance your strategic planning and execution capabilities. Gain skills in analyzing complex situations, identifying opportunities, and developing long-term strategies.

Problem Solving

  • Cultivate advanced problem-solving skills to tackle complex organizational challenges. Learn frameworks and approaches to diagnose problems, develop solutions, and implement changes.

Discretion and Confidentiality

  • Maintain the highest standards of discretion and confidentiality in all dealings. Understand the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and building a reputation of trustworthiness.

Time Management & Prioritization

  • Master techniques for effective time management and prioritization to enhance productivity. Learn how to balance competing priorities, delegate tasks, and manage your workload efficiently.

Module 4: Hard Skills & Competencies

Running an Effective Meeting

  • Learn how to plan, facilitate, and follow up on meetings to ensure productive outcomes. Develop skills to create effective agendas, manage group dynamics, and ensure actionable takeaways.

Policy & Procedure Development

  • Develop and implement policies and procedures that streamline operations. Understand how to create clear, effective guidelines that enhance organizational efficiency and compliance.

Process Improvement

  • Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and effectiveness. Learn methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma to optimize workflows and reduce waste.

Financial Acumen

  • Gain a solid understanding of financial principles and how to apply them in a strategic context. Learn how to read financial statements and make stronger financial decisions.

Understanding Data Analysis

  • Learn to interpret and leverage data to inform decision-making and strategy. Develop skills in data collection, analysis, and visualization to support strategic initiatives.

Module 5: Career Growth & Development

Landing Your Dream Job

  • Receive guidance on how to secure a Chief of Staff position, from finding your perfect fit and tailoring your resume, to interviewing and follow up and everything in between. Learn proven strategies to stand out in the job market and make a compelling case for your candidacy.

Your First 30/60/90 Days as a Chief of Staff

  • Get a detailed plan to navigate your initial months in the role, ensuring a strong start. Learn how to analyze the company from the inside, set priorities, build relationships, and quickly establish credibility.

get certified as a chief of staff