The CEO "Handbook"
By now you’re probably sick of hearing that we’re living in “unprecedented times,” so I won’t belabor that point. How about I say that we’re living in a time that offers numerous opportunities to stretch and grow your skillset, both professionally and personally? Glad we came to that agreement, so why this blog?
In 2019, I was so excited to land my first CEO role. In a whirlwind, I moved my son and I to a new city, bought a new house, and jumped into the new job. I’ve been at the executive table for many years as a Chief of Staff and multiple vice presidencies. However, I quickly learned just how different it is to be at the helm. I was so used to playing the support role and had to quickly figure out how to adjust with my own team of advisors. I have been a student of leadership my entire life, but the typical leadership curriculum also didn’t prepare me for those moments when the buck stopped with me. And, it certainly didn’t prepare me to make such tough decisions during a pandemic only eight short months after starting the job. I’m keeping my head above water though and feel compelled to share my learning moments with all of you.
Prior to the pandemic, I was already starting to write a CEO handbook of sorts as a learning tool for ME. Hence the tagline of this blog…”Talkin to Myself.” However, as I started to receive questions via my @CEOARJ Instagram account, I figured it would be helpful to skip the handbook and share my thoughts in cyberspace. I will share the highs and the lows, but most importantly, what I’m learning through it all. Topics that come to mind include organizational culture, strategic planning, leadership styles, fear (yes executives have fears), self-care, communications, human resources, equity in the workplace, and more.
While the main focus will be on lessons for executive leadership, I will also be sharing what I learned from my staff as well. There are leaders at every level in an organization. I often say that I’m only as strong as my staff because they make me a better leader because of the way they both support and push me.
@CEOARJ
“Empowered by my ancestral hustle and warrior soul.”
*All statements expressed in this blog are my personal views and not a representation of Washington STEM.
