In this episode, Anthony Taylor talks with Maggie Olson, a former T-Mobile Chief of Staff, about what that job really means. They cover how it's a strategic role, not just admin, how it differs from other leadership roles, and what skills are needed. Maggie explains how to become a Chief of Staff and why leaders should consider hiring one to boost efficiency. This podcast reveals how hiring Chief of Staff can be your secret weapon to strategic success.

TAKEAWAYS

• Chiefs of Staff are strategic partners for leaders.
• The role is expanding as leaders seek higher-level support.
• A Chief of Staff organizes and prioritizes initiatives for leaders.
• Networking is crucial for aspiring Chiefs of Staff.
• Look for roles that involve high-level support, not just administrative tasks.
• Experience in customer service can enhance a Chief of Staff's effectiveness.
• Special projects can provide valuable experience for future Chiefs of Staff.
• A Chief of Staff needs strong access to the leader to be effective.
• Understanding the unique needs of the organization is key to success.
• Consider the timing and readiness of the organization before hiring a Chief of Staff.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Chief of Staff Role
• 03:04The Evolution and Importance of the Chief of Staff
• 05:59 Identifying the Right Fit for Chief of Staff
• 08:58 Career Pathways to Becoming a Chief of Staff
• 12:07 Skills and Experiences that Shape a Chief of Staff
• 14:54 Final Thoughts and Resources for Aspiring Chiefs of Staff

// Connect with us:

► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact

► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/ // About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.

► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic-planning-facilitator

In this episode, Rebecca Homkes, author of "Survive, Reset, Thrive," discusses practical strategies for building a growth strategy in volatile times with host Anthony C. Taylor. The discussion explores proactive survival strategies, the "loop mentality" in strategic planning, building competitive advantages, and the significance of acting on beliefs rather than waiting for facts. Plus, we touch on developing talent for long-term resilience in a rapidly changing environment. Learn how to create a sustainable growth strategy in volatile times in this episode of the SME Strategy Podcast.

Key Takeaways

• Must embrace uncertainty as a growth opportunity.
• The reset phase is crucial for thriving post-crisis.
• Loop thinking allows for continuous strategy cycles.
• Proactive survival means preparing before shocks occur.
• Competitive advantages are eroding faster than ever.
• Acting on beliefs can lead to better strategic decisions.
• Organizations should focus on building loyalty with customers.
• Talent development is essential for long-term growth.
• Strategic plans should be living documents that adapt.
• Growth requires a commitment from leadership.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Survive, Reset, Thrive

02:55 Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership

05:51 The Importance of Loop Thinking

08:49 Building Competitive Advantage

12:11 Kickers and Killers: Strategic Planning Insights

14:58 Developing Talent for Growth

16:55 Conclusion and Call to Action

// Connect with us:

► Contact us: https://www.smestrategy.net/contact

► Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: / anthonyctaylor604

// About SME STRATEGY CONSULTING: SME Strategy is a management consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop and implement their strategic plans. We work with teams to facilitate conversations about strategic direction and business strategy so that our clients can focus their energy on what will move them forward faster.

► Work with us: Are you looking for someone to facilitate your strategic planning process? https://www.smestrategy.net/strategic...

• Regenerative data centers aim to create positive feedback loops with their environment.
• Innovation requires a diverse range of perspectives and collaboration.
• Identifying pain points and opportunities is crucial in the innovation process.
• Synthesis is a key component of successful innovation.
• Life experiences can profoundly shape one's approach to leadership and innovation.
• Engaging with the community can transform perceptions of infrastructure projects.
• Incremental improvements are not enough; sometimes a complete refactor is necessary.
• Bad innovation often stems from a lack of understanding of the target audience.
• The journey of innovation is complex and requires both hard and soft skills.
• Personal challenges can lead to a renewed focus on what truly matters.