Over the past few weeks, several of my Chief of Staff clients happened to share a common concern. They told me how they were afraid of doing something and having their CEO say it was wrong, or that they would step on another executives’ toes.

I kept hearing variations on this theme: “I have to check with my CEO on everything to get their approval first.”

If you’re going to be an effective Chief of Staff, you have to relentlessly exercise your proactivity muscles.

What do you think your CEO actually wants? Questions fast-balled at them? More pressure to make decisions? No! They hired you for a reason - to make their life easier.

So what does this mean? Just do it.

Tee it up for you CEO and they will love you for it. Inform, don’t ask. Make recommendations. Ask for input, not answers, and let them know that unless they have a strong opinion in another direction, you’ve got this.

Don’t wait for instructions on every little thing. Go be proactive.

Trust me, it’s why you were hired!

About The Author

Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense. 

Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.