My most recommended resources for Operators

 

Books for new COOs and Heads of Operations

Fundamentals of Organizational Execution

My most-recommended books, tools, and resources for anyone working on creating a performance culture

recommended in order

  1. Read The 4 Disciplines of Execution, which uses research to explain the foundational elements of what drives execution. This book will help you diagnose and articulate which disciplines are missing.

  2. Then, implement Mastering the Rockefeller Habits immediately. If your team isn’t effectively executing, you need to implement a proven framework ASAP so you can begin to build a performance culture. This isn’t the time to start from scratch and design your own system.

OKRs and Goal Setting

My most-recommended books, tools, and resources for anyone tasked with implementing a new goal-setting system in an organization.

Learning about okrs, recommended in order

  1. Read Measure What Matters by John Doerr. Even if you’re not setting goals, read this book so you can understand the lingo. Venture capitalists love this book, so I recommend reading it if you’re fundraising or working with investors.

  2. Short on time? Read a few of these articles listed in The Best OKR Reading List in the World.

  3. Subscribe to the Measure What Matters blog.

  4. So now that you understand OKRs, dive into specialized resources such as Stride Consulting’s OKR Best Practice’s for Technology Teams.

OKR Tracking Tools, recommended in order

  • WorkBoard. WorkBoard’s CEO and Co-Founder, Deidre Paknad, is incredible. I saw her speak at the 2019 Chief of Staff Summit in DC. It’s also an amazing product that I recommend.

  • Lattice. Lattice transforms your people strategy by connecting performance management, employee engagement, and career development in one unified solution. If you’re already using Lattice, start with this as it’s one less platform to implement and manage. If you’re not using Lattice, check it out with your People leaders!

 
 

Articles for Operators, from my life in the trenches

Featured
How I Built A “Second Brain” to Enhance My COO Effectiveness in a Startup (Building a Second Brain Part 1)
How Busy Leaders Can Trigger a Flow State and all of its Benefits

In an ever-increasingly complex business world, leaders cannot disappear for weeks at a time to pursue a flow state at an ashram. While a thorough rest and recharge are always helpful, it’s more realistic to look for ways to trigger a flow state that simultaneously drive results in your business.

Intentional Networking: How to Implement "Never Eat Alone" to Change Your Entire Life

A reader asked me how I keep track of connections, especially with fellow Chiefs of Staff and other new people I encounter on a regular basis. I just so happened to have recently implemented a whole new system!

My Humble Advice to the Bed Bath & Beyond Board of Directors

Let’s talk about why Bed Bath & Beyond needs to figure out what they’re going to be great at, choose what they’re going to be bad at, and own that decision unapologetically.

The Company Vocabulary List

Meetings that used to be impromptu now require planning, and a room, and remembering all the proper attendees, and omg why can’t I find a time that works for everyone?!

So where can we start? Consistent vocabulary.

What is an Artful Concern?

It’s a phrase I use to define all the well-run, inspiring organizations that make the world a better place. They do so not by being the biggest, the best, or the most well known. Instead, they deliver flawless experiences, reliable service, or must-have products.

What else are you looking for? What would help? Reach out and let me know!