Parmenio - Chief of Staff

As Gary Burnison, CEO of Korn Ferry states, passion really matters. Having a story that captures your passion, purpose, values and competencies is critical to getting the job you want. On this episode of the podcast we first explore why stories are so powerful and elicit such an emotional response. It turns out that human beings are hardwired to interpret incoming information as narrative. Next, we describe a 6 Step method you can use to craft your own story. A story that demonstrates your passion, purpose, values and competencies. One that can help you get the job you so passionately want.

On this episode of the podcast we describe and walk you through the organization socialization process. First we articulate just what the organization socialization process is and why it’s so important to your success in a new organization. Then we walk you through a proactive socialization framework that you can use to build relationships, networks and resources in your new role. Using this framework you can accelerate the socialization process and that will allow you to be much more effective as Chief of Staff.

This episode is all  about Elevating you and your career. On this episode we describe the Career Adaptability and Competency frameworks. We then discuss and describe two methods you can use to Elevate yourself to get that Chief of Staff job. First, we describe Feedback Seeking Behavior and how it can be used to elevate your skills and your profile. We then describe how a coaching and measurement plan can be used to improve your skills and abilities and be used to help you self present yourself as a Chief of Staff candidate.

On this episode of the podcast we interview Mr Ian Crook. Ian is the owner / CEO / MD of a transport company based in the UK and also a Parmenio client. On the podcast, Ian first shares some background on the challenges his business and leadership has faced this past year. Ian then shares how he cane to learn of Parmenio and how we came to work together. And finally, Ian shares his experience with Parmenio from a coaching standpoint and how it’s helped him, his business and his personal life.

Organizational conflict is inevitable. For the Chief of Staff, doubly so due to the unique role and position. On this episode of the podcast we first describe the structural factors that lead to conflict. Second, we provide some statistics on conflict in the workplace. And finally, we offer a Four Step model for conflict resolution that is based on the Fisher and Ury model of “getting to yes.”

Change events such as an organizational change, job loss and new job can impact a persons “perceived control,” and thus result in the person feeling a “loss of control.” A “loss of control” is usually accompanied by chronic stress that can lead to immune suppression and other adverse health effects. In this podcast we describe how one can use Reflective Journaling to gain greater perceived control and thus reduce their stress response. Next we identify benefits of reflective journaling such as increased efficacy, knowledge creation and goal attainment. Then we outline three scenarios and how a Chief of Staff can customize a reflective journal to fit their situation.

Everyone at some point in their life experiences rejection / failure. What’s important is that we have the right mindset to deal with rejection, and we use that failure to catapult us forward in a positive manner. On this episode of the podcast we first describe the physiological effects on the body due to rejection. We then outline a simple three step process (reframe , resist, elevate) that we can use anytime we have a setback.

The Two Become One - that is the goal of the Chief of Staff, to develop a deeply intimate, trusting relationship with your partner. On this episode of the podcast we describe the steps and method to forge deeply intimate relationships that allow you to be fully: Present - Attentive - Mindful - with your partner. Or, with anyone for that matter. Being fully present and attentive via the body is a superpower. And on this episode of the podcast we describe why and the steps to allow you to do this. Not an easy task mind you.

“I need you to lead the development of a new product. So tell me, how would you go about doing that?” On this episode of the podcast we describe a simple project plan that you can use to guide the development of a new product. First, we key factors that contribute to new product development (NPD) success. We then outline the NPD process that has been articulated and used by Booz for many years. And finally we walk you through the steps to lead a new product development project.

It is highly likely that you will be asked during the interview process the following question, “so tell me, how do you implement a new process?”  And if you’re already a Chief of Staff, it’s likely you will be asked to implement a new process. On this episode of the podcast we first define “process” and “process orientation.” We then review the Business Process Maturity model and Hammer’s 7 principles of process management. And to wrap it up, we outline the high level steps to implement a new process.

On this episode of the podcast we dive into “leader positivity.” Leader positivity is a mindset and a way of behaving and approaching things that is characterized by four attributes. The four attributes that comprise leader positivity are efficacy, optimism, hope and resiliency. We first define leader positivity, then we break down each attribute. For each attribute we describe specific methods that you can use to develop them.

On this episode of the podcast we describe value based decision making. Value based decision making is both powerful and elegant. The power lies from the fact that they are derived from the values of the organization. First, we give and overview of what value based decision making is. Next, we discuss research that Bain Consulting has done on decision making. We then give and overview of the value based models that Bezos, Benioff and Reed Hastings use. And finally, we review an approach that you can use to develop a value based decision making model. This method can be used to practice and sharpen your skills.

It’s back to OKR’s! On this episode of the podcast we review John Doerr’s five OKR superpowers. John Doerr is a legendary VC and a major advocate of OKR’s, and Doerr personally introduced OKR’s to Google. We review Doerr’s five OKR superpowers and add additionally clarity and analysis. The five superpowers are focus, alignment, commitment, tracking and stretch goals. We assess the five superpowers and analyze the veracity of each claim.

On this episode of the podcast we develop a framework and a plan for the First 100 Days on the job as a Chief of Staff. The framework we present is adaptable and iterative in nature, yet has a strong foundational core. The goal of any such “100 Day Plan” is to build credibility, confidence, motivation and momentum. We want to approach the First 100 Days with confidence and action. We first touch on the accomplishments of FDR’s first 100 days in office. We then outline a balanced plan that consists of immersion / learning and action / results. Finally, we integrate behaviors into the plan that build trust, psychological safety and inspiration / motivation in the organization. Our goal is to hit the ground running and make an impact in the first 100 days.

On this episode of the podcast we describe a Primary Research Method To accelerate your mastery of the CEO Agenda. This method can be used by both the current Chief of Staff and someone interviewing for the role. First, we describe a Research Method whereby you interview a select group of individuals (interview subjects) in the organization. This is a qualitative research project, using an interview protocol and open ended questions.  The research objective is to discern alignment, consistency and obstacles / constraints with the CEO Agenda. We then describe the 7 steps that allow you to complete this project; from the proposal stage to delivering the written and oral reports. This project will increase your knowledge of the organization, help you to build relationships and allow you to gain greater mastery in your role.

On this episode of the podcast we explore “shadowing,” and how the Chief of Staff uses this training method to accelerate their knowledge and understanding of the CEO. First, we define observational shadowing, and explore some of the nuances. Next, we we describe how you prepare for the shadowing process. We detail the seven steps you should complete before you start the actual shadowing process. Then, we put it all together and describe how a day of shadowing is executed.

The Chief of Staff’s core role is to drive and implement the Agenda of the CEO. Part of the CEO agenda includes articulating a set of values that the CEO wants the organization to “live by.” On this episode of the podcast we first define what values are. We then use Schein’s model to better understand the complex nature of values in an organization. And finally, we describe specific methods that the Chief of Staff can use to reinforce their partner’s values, and how the Chief Of Staff uses these methods to create higher levels of Value Alignment.

This episode of the podcast is for Advanced Practitioners that have a love for rhetoric and debate. On this episode we will explore how we use rhetoric to both to both promote the Chief Of Staff role, and to defend it against attacks. We use the example from a Quora thread in which a CEO uses strawman arguments to discredit the role of the Chief of Staff in startups. We then describe different methods to position against these strawman attacks.

On this episode of the podcast we explore the agenda of the CEO. We first define what the CEO agenda is. For this, we use Marc Benioff’s V2MOM (vision, values, methods, obstacles and measures) as an example of what the CEO agenda embodies. We then describe how the Chief of Staff uses their knowledge of the CEO agenda; to become a more effective and masterful, Chief of Staff.

What does the chief of Staff do? When people ask this question they are looking for a sense meaning and purpose? They are looking to make sense of the role. Most people answer this question by using ambiguous terminology which tends to confuse the listener. The objective of this podcast is to articulate a vision of the Chief of Staff role that gives it meaning and purpose. So that people can “make sense” of the role, and understand how it “fits” into the organization.

CEO’s will often ask their Chief of Staff to help them keep their finger on the “pulse of the organization.” First of all, what does this mean? Secondly, how do you go about doing it? On this episode we explain how you nurture psychological safety in your organization, and how that allows you to keep your finger on the pulse of the organization. First, we define what psychological safety is. Then, we describe four methods that you can use to build psychological safety in your organization.

The relationship between horse and rider is a unique and special one. One based on a deep sense of trust. Likewise, the relationship between Chief of Staff and CEO is unique and special. Building a deep foundation of trust is crucial to success. On this podcast we explore three dimensions of trust and how you use those dimensions to build trust over time. First we explore cognitive trust; and how your competence, reliability and integrity build trust. We then explore affective trust, and how your benevolence and consideration are building blocks of trust. And finally, we describe behavioral trust; and how you use body language and behaviors to deepen trust.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss how the Chief of Staff uses Organizational Change Management Best Practices to drive affect change.  We’ve reviewed the scientific research on organizational change and distilled the findings into best practices for three distinct phases of organizational change. The first phase is the “visioning” stage, in which the leader develops a vision for the future that calls for change. The second phase is “mobilizing,” in which the organization is “readied” for change. And the third stage is “navigating,” which is the process of undergoing change.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss how the Chief of Staff uses Stakeholder Management to engage and gain support from stakeholders on initiatives and projects. We describe a three step process that the Chief of Staff can use for stakeholder management. In the first step we describe four methods that can be used for stakeholder identification. Second, we discuss how to segment and map stakeholders based on interest and influence. And finally, we describe how to use the stakeholder segments to develop communication and influencing plans.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss how the Chief Of Staff uses Transformational Leadership to inspire, challenge and lead. First, we describe the four dimensions of transformational leadership. We then give examples of behaviors and attributes from each dimension. And finally, we describe three exercises that you can do to practice and refine your transformational leadership skills.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss how the Chief Of Staff uses Goal Setting best practices to increase Goal Commitment in the organization. First, we discuss how Goal Commitment is impacted by the “importance” of the goal and its “achievability.” We then demonstrate how the Chief Of Staff can impact how the organization views both the importance of the goal and its achievability, through examples and case studies. Finally, we give examples of how you can increase self efficacy, so that each individual believes they can reach their goals.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss how OKR’s are used to align and integrate the organization’s actions and priorities to the organizations top level objectives. We then define OKR’s and describe key points in how they are used. Next we discuss the research on goal setting and how you need to think about the goals you set (stretch, roof-shot, etc.). And finally, we present a framework that you can use to implement OKR’s in your organization.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss the importance of message and mission. We detail why the CEO must develop simple themes and messages that articulate where the organization is headed. And why reinforcement of these themes by the CEO and Chief of Staff is critical to organization buy in. We then give a case study on how Satya Nadella has used this model at Microsoft to turn the organization around. We also articulate why the Chief Of Staff must master and reinforce these themes.

On this episode of the podcast we first explore the need for a Chief of Staff. We detail five key questions that a CEO / Hiring Manager can ask to validate their need for a Chief of Staff. Once that need is validated we describe the seven steps we use to bring on a Chief of Staff. This includes an assessment of the CEO’s time and the organization’s needs. Our recommendations for the position along with the creation of a job description. And a detailed on-boarding plan for the CEO and Chief of Staff.

According to Bain Consulting, CEO’s face six common dilemma’s related to time management and the implementation of their agenda. In this podcast we first review how Bain advises CEO’s on these dilemma’s. And we then describe how the Chief of Staff uses their skill sets and knowledge to solve these dilemma’s and drive the CEO agenda.

As organizations grow and become more complex the need for coordination and communication grows. Meetings usually result. On this podcast we explore how the Chief Of Staff can use best in class process, content and facilitator behaviors in order to drive effective meetings. The Chief of Staff can master these skills and then model them in the organization for others to learn from.

The relationship between CEO and  Chief of Staff is unique and special. The Chief of Staff role is also unique. These aspects of the role support a mutually beneficial mentoring relationship. On this podcast we discuss and teach the mentoring approach called the “cognitive apprenticeship.” We overview the six methods used in the approach and how the Chief Of Staff can integrate these methods in a seamless manner into the relationship.

On this episode we explore and discuss what companies want in a Chief of Staff. For this analysis, we reviewed 150 recent Chief of Staff job postings and assessed them in regards to Job Responsibilities, Education Requirements, Years of Experience and Skills / Attributes. We give a summary of our findings and overview of this research on the podcast.

On this episode we discuss Strategy / Advisory Mastery as it relates to the Chief of Staff. First we define what Strategy Mastery is. Second, we define it and articulate how this skill enhances the ability of the Chief of Staff to be successful. Finally, we detail how the Chief of Staff can achieve Strategy / Advisory Mastery in three phases

On this episode we discuss Project Mastery as it relates to the Chief of Staff. First we define what Project Mastery is. Second, we articulate how this skill enhances the ability of the Chief of Staff to be successful. Finally, we detail how the Chief of Staff can achieve Project Mastery in three phases.

On this episode we discuss Proxy Mastery as it relates to the Chief of Staff. First we define what Proxy Mastery is. Second, we define Proxy Mastery and articulate how this skill enhances the ability of the Chief of Staff to be successful. Finally, we detail how the Chief of Staff can achieve Proxy Mastery in three phases.

On this episode of the podcast we discuss Schedule Mastery as it relates to the Chief of Staff’s role and duties. First, we define what Schedule Mastery is. Second, we articulate how it flows from and synchronizes with the operating rhythm and cadence of the organization. And then we detail how the Chief of Staff can achieve Schedule Mastery in three phases.

The term Gatekeeper is often used to describe duties of the White House Chief of Staff. The term itself has negative connotations associated with it. On this podcast we give a historical overview of how White House Chief’s of Staff have played Gatekeeper. The issues and problems encountered. Then we discuss a more appropriate model for “gatekeeping” flows from the operating rhythm and decision making process.

On this episode we describe how the Chief Of Staff Drives the Operating Rhythm / cadence of the organization. How the Operating Rhythm supports the CEO’s decision making style. And finally, how the Chief Of Staff uses four specific practice area’s (proxy, project, schedule and strategy) to synchronize and integrate the decision making cycle  (Operating Rhythm).

Decisiveness is a critical attribute of successful CEO's. The research tells us that decisiveness is not only critical for CEO success, but also organizational success. On this podcast we first define CEO decisiveness, and then give examples of how successful leaders think regarding decisive decision making. We then give examples of CEO decision making styles, and how the Chief of Staff integrates the CEO decision making style into the organizations operating rhythm to drive decisiveness.

This episode explores the CEO Mindset. We first define what CEO Mindset is and why its important for the Chief of Staff to understand this. We then distill the mindset of successful CEO's to discern common themes in terms of behavior, actions and routines.