Force Multiplier Mindset: Maximizing Impact as an EA or Chief of Staff
Being an EA (Executive Assistant) or Chief of Staff is not about the title. It is about acting as a force multiplier. You take the executive’s vision and make sure it gets understood, organized, and executed across the company. Emily Sander and Hallie Warner breaks down what that mindset looks like day to day.
Key Takeaways
A force multiplier is a mindset. It is not tied to a single title. EAs, Chiefs of Staff, and Executive Business Partners can all operate this way.
EA and Chief of Staff roles are different, but both are strategic and tactical. EAs handle more immediate needs. Chiefs of Staff handle longer-term work and fill gaps across the business.
The partnership works only when roles are clear, egos are checked, and all three parties (executive, EA, Chief of Staff) communicate openly.
Notable Quotes
“We have one high impact job. We are just each doing different parts of it.”
“It took time to retrain my principal to not always come to me for everything.”
“It’s not other people’s job to know your job. You have to communicate your role.”
Real-World Applications
Clarify roles early
Application: Define lanes openly to avoid tension or overlap.
Example: Before hiring a new EA, the executive, EA, and Chief of Staff meet monthly to agree who owns scheduling, internal communication, and long-term planning.Rebrand when moving from EA to Chief of Staff
Application: Actively redirect tasks and teach colleagues where new responsibilities go.
Example: When promoted, Hallie reminded people that logistics now went to the new EA, not to her, so she could focus on strategic work.Lead yourself first
Application: Read, learn, and understand your executive’s priorities.
Example: Hallie pushes EAs to study the business so they become true strategic partners rather than task-only operators.
Force multipliers make leaders better. Whether you’re an EA or Chief of Staff, the real work is aligning with the executive, owning your lane, collaborating tightly, and making sure the vision becomes action. The mindset matters more than the title.
Time Stamps:
01:21 Hallie's Background and Experience
02:21 Force Multiplier: Concept and Company
04:02 Chief of Staff vs. Executive Assistant
05:42 Organizational Structures and Roles
07:48 Factors Influencing EA and Chief of Staff Roles
15:23 Collaboration Between EA and Chief of Staff
22:37 Challenges and Solutions in EA and Chief of Staff Dynamics
32:08 Misconceptions About EAs and Chiefs of Staff
32:58 Advice for Aspiring Chiefs of Staff
35:13 Conclusion and Book Recommendations
Links Mentioned:
Contact Hallie Warner: Email: hallie@halliewarner.com
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.