Introducing the, So, You Want This Job? series.  In this recurring theme, we discuss various jobs, the responsibilities and expectations that come with the work, and most importantly, the qualities you need to have in order to excel in the roles.  Enjoy!

First up:  So, You Want this Job?  Chief Operating Officer

The Chief of anything carries responsibility simply by title and position.  Some may prefer VP of Operations, some may select Director of Operations…but however a company is structured, most organizations have an operations lead.  This position is the one that makes sure the work gets done through process, procedures and daily improvements and ensuring things are working as effectively and efficiently as possible.

Here are 3 traits you must have if you want to be a successful COO:

1.  Ego is a “no-go”.   A quick way to lose respect from those you work with, vendors you deal with, or customers you serve is approaching your daily interactions as if you are the most important in the room.  As one who must be able to bring a diversified skill set in dealing with various departments and projects you must keep this in the forefront at all times.  The best in operations know if you aren’t respected you aren’t effective.

2.  Detail Junkie.  The best in operations (regardless if you are titled a COO or just work in the operations world) have an instinctive ability to spot the slightest thing wrong with an almost finished product.  When others have already signed off on a project, an operations executive will look 5 steps down the process and spot how one slight change now will save countless steps later.  However, here is what sets apart an operations executive from those that work for them.  There may be flaws and tweaks that could be made, but the COO will have discernment on when to let it go and get the product to market.  Just because things can be improved does not mean production should be halted.  The best in operations have discernment in the details.

3. Excel at Execution  – The COO is the executing executive.  It takes an operational mindset to see the vision of the company, product, or market and to also identify the path forward in actionable items to achieve success.  An operations lead helps translate the vision into next steps across multiple departments.  The executive in operations identifies opportunities of letting people work in ways and on things that brings out the best in them when determining the best path forward.  The best in operations create a rewarding daily grind.

So, you want this job?  Gather these skills and don’t be afraid to ask for help.  Education and experience take time and are well worth the journey that you take. But don’t forget to ask for guidance from those who have blazed the trails ahead of you already. 

At HarkerGray, we would be honored to coach you into the success you are meant to attain.  Call or email us at anytime.  We are here for you.