Almost all CEOs and leading managers want evaluations of those around them, insiders as well as outsiders, and they will ask you as their advisor to provide candid assessments. Be ready with productive, constructive comments. Too often, I see internal advisors, especially PR practitioners, step back from this responsibility and, though often eager to criticize those who are outside of the organization, speak only with great reluctance about those inside. Remember the number two responsibility of all people in leadership positions: have in place the people and skills necessary to achieve the goals and objectives the boss promised to accomplish.
As a trusted strategic advisor, you want to be in a position to make appropriate comments about everyone else on the team. Having a management perspective requires that you pay attention to what everyone contributes, the nature of what is contributed, and how those contributions can be improved. Be prepared to judge the capabilities and competencies of those in the leader’s vicinity. All outside advisors can count on being asked to evaluate inside experts and advisors. Reluctance will affect your relationship with senior people. Be ready.
*©2006-2025, James E. Lukaszewski, “Why Should the Boss Listen to You, The Seven Disciplines of the Trusted Strategic Advisor, page 43,” Josey Bass. Contact the copyright holder at jel@e911.com for information and reproduction permissions. Editing or excerpting forbidden.