In recent years, there has been a resurgence of chief operating officer positions available in the association management industry. This past May, to help association professionals shine in these positions, ASAE’s Executive Management Advisory Council, along with ASAE Learning, created a webinar series about the role of the COO. The series highlighted three areas that COOs must balance in their unique role: leadership, trends, and career aspirations.

Panelists and moderators were curated from the council, along with other association COOs and professionals specializing in executive recruiting and coaching. The perspectives complemented one another to provide a broader understanding of the COO role and its importance. 

As an outcome, the panelists shared “The COO’s Playbook: 10 Critical Lessons for Exceling in the Role.” Here’s an overview of how these recommendations will help CEOs be successful in the position and improve their associations too.

1. See the bigger picture. In their role, COOs have a unique perspective across different organizational departments and functions. They should use this cross-organizational viewpoint to identify and draw connections between teams, processes, and strategies. For example, one content provider shared that they helped to grow the organization and increase the staff and departments. The ability to show flexibility while working with the CEO’s goals is crucial.

2. Encourage a culture of inquiry. COOs should encourage a culture of inquiry within their organizations and promote the exploration of different possibilities. Remember that asking insightful questions can lead to better outcomes and foster a culture of continuous learning organization wide.

3. Disagree with the CEO. It is essential to cultivate trust and open communication with the CEO. Disagreements should be approached respectfully and constructively, focusing on finding common ground and reaching optimal solutions.

4. Know your career path. The role of COO can be viewed as a stepping stone to higher positions within the organization or as a fulfilling career destination. It’s essential for COOs to assess their aspirations and motivations. Assessment can occur before pursuing this path and certainly after getting a COO job. Not everyone can be a CEO and COOs offer a great balance.

5. Understand different COO positions. Not all COO positions are the same, and their specific responsibilities can vary significantly. Before accepting a COO role, understand the details of the position and how it aligns with expertise, interests, and career goals.

6. Know your spot. Recognize that being a COO can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. If you find satisfaction in overseeing operational excellence, managing teams, and driving organizational efficiency, embrace the COO role as your sweet spot.

7. Understand strategic distinction. Determine whether the primary focus of the COO role in your organization is strategic planning or implementation. Some COO positions involve shaping the organization’s strategic direction and playing a pivotal role in decision-making, while others may be more focused on executing and operationalizing the strategies set by the CEO.

8. Establish boundaries of authority. Collaborate with the CEO to clearly define your areas of authority as a COO. For example, understand when you need their approval for decisions and when you have the autonomy to inform them. Having a clear understanding of decision-making boundaries and levels of authority will enable you to act decisively within your responsibilities, while maintaining alignment and avoiding unnecessary conflicts.

9. Balance strengths and growth opportunities. While the COO role is often focused on operational excellence, it’s essential to balance leveraging your strengths and seeking growth opportunities. Look for opportunities to expand your skillset, take on new challenges, and explore areas outside your comfort zone. By continuously developing and embracing new experiences, you can avoid getting stuck in a routine and bring fresh perspectives to your role.

10. Align skillset with evolving scope. The duties and scope of the COO position can change over time as the organization grows and changes. It’s crucial to periodically assess whether the changes align with your skillset, expertise, and interests.