How a Part-Time Chief of Staff Juggles Multiple Startups and Projects
Most Chief of Staff roles are all-consuming, full-time positions. But Nathan Lian has cracked the code on something different: being a fractional Chief of Staff across multiple startups. His approach shows how the right person can add strategic value to several companies without burning out.
Key Takeaways
Time-boxing saves your sanity - Working with multiple clients requires strict boundaries. Nathan blocks hours for each client and ignores other company's messages during focused work time.
Early-stage companies are ideal for fractional work - Pre-Series A companies have endless tasks but limited resources. They benefit most from someone who can plug in quickly without extensive onboarding.
Choose clients based on people, not just projects - The CEO relationship matters more than the business model. If you don't genuinely like working with the founder, the engagement won't succeed.
Notable Quotes
"You have to brainwash yourself a little bit... you've disagreed with the points that were made but you have to convince yourself that those points are compelling because that's the reason why a decision was made."
"If you don't actually enjoy getting down and dirty in the details and the chaos then it's probably not for you."
"Do I like the CEO as a person and do I think that they're building a company that is cool? It sounds so elementary but it's truly that."
Real-World Applications
Create a "second brain" note system - Use one master document per client with all meeting notes, decisions, and context. Don't create separate files for each meeting or you'll lose track of everything.
Set communication boundaries - When working on Company A, don't respond to Company B's Slack messages unless it's urgent. Context switching kills productivity and leads to mistakes.
Qualify clients during long conversations - Before taking on fractional work, spend months having casual coffee chats about their business. This helps you understand if you can add real value.
The fractional Chief of Staff model works when you're selective about clients, ruthless about boundaries, and honest about what you can deliver. It's not for everyone, but for the right person working with the right early-stage companies, it offers a unique way to make an impact across multiple organizations while maintaining your sanity.
00:43 Nathan's Journey to Chief of Staff
02:53 The First 90 Days as a Chief of Staff
06:06 The Challenges of Being a Chief of Staff
17:38 The Role of a Fractional Chief of Staff
21:03 Balancing Multiple Projects as a Fractional Chief of Staff
27:26 Choosing the Right Projects as a Fractional Chief of Staff
40:23 Advice for Aspiring Chiefs of Staff
43:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Nathan on LinkedIn: / nathanclian
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.