The Chief of Staff As… Advocate
Today marks the fourth installment of the "The Chief of Staff As..." series.
If you’re just tuning in, we’re illuminating the diverse dimensions of the Chief of Staff role. We’ve hit Generalist, Connector, and most recently Strategist. It’s about time we shift over and highlight their role as an advocate for their teams.
Amplifying Voices
What does it mean for a CoS to be an advocate? First of all, there has to be a steadfast commitment to amplify the voices of stakeholders within the organization. To do this well, you have to be hyper-sensitive to and skillfully execute dynamics of communication — why, what, when, and how.
Additionally, a CoS serves as a conduit for frontline teams.
This does mean:
You value relationships at all levels of an organization. You’re actively seeking feedback. (Ideally, people feel comfortable talking with you about their perspectives, concerns, and ideas.)
You lead with empathy and extreme awareness.
This does not mean:
You’re a dumping ground for “honey-do’s” (humble lingo for “list of demands”)
Every answer is always “yes, absolutely - you’ll have it hot in 5 minutes”
Always remember - feedback is a gift! This goes for both internal (your coworkers) and external (your partners & clients).
By actively soliciting feedback, engaging in dialogue, and championing inclusivity, Chiefs of Staff create an environment where voices matter and contributions can be recognized. And this feeds into culture, which will affect every // single // thread of your organization.
Championing Causes
Chiefs of Staff are not just passive observers of organizational dynamics; they're proactive champions!
As they observe, a CoS should be able to leverage their knowledge of their organization’s values and mission, and help to support things that align with it.
It could be that you partner with your HR team for diversity and inclusion initiatives. Maybe there’s a need and opportunity to develop and promote employee wellness programs. Perhaps sustainability is valuable and you’re able to use your influence and platform to spearhead that.
The big idea is to drive positivity within the organization… and beyond! Be a true catalyst for progress, and inspire others to join you in the pursuit of meaningful and impactful causes.
Fostering a Culture of Empowerment
A key aspect of advocacy is empowering others to advocate for themselves.
I previously mentioned leading with empathy extreme awareness. A CoS has the opportunity to be a role model and mentor, encouraging team members to speak up, share their ideas, and take ownership.
Not like COO, a CoS works most directly with and in support of their principal. So, the nature of the role is truly to equip others’ success. This intent also translates well to those people a CoS interacts with.
By fostering a culture of empowerment and self-advocacy, Chiefs of Staff create a more inclusive and dynamic work environment where individuals feel empowered to contribute their best work and reach their full potential.
So, what sets the Chief of Staff apart as an advocate in the world of leadership?
It's their unwavering commitment to amplifying voices, championing causes, and fostering a culture of empowerment.
There is a powerful ripple effect the Chief of Staff's advocacy creates. Beyond the walls of an organization, their efforts extend to broader impact. If you’re a CoS, I want to encourage you to plant seeds of positive change, and be a part of cultivating an environment where every voice matters, and every individual feels empowered to thrive. Do this well, and your influence transcends your daily operations, and you truly pave the way for a better future.
I’m excited to continue exploring the multifaceted role of the Chief of Staff in Part 5, coming soon!
