Recognizing the Signs of CEO Burnout: The Crucial Role of HR, Chief of Staffs, EAs, and CAOs in Fostering Wellness

Dear CEOs, Human Resources teams, Executive Assistants, Chiefs of Staff, and Chief Administrative Officers,

As stewards of acting air traffic controller and corporate well-being, you're undoubtedly acquainted with the complexity of diverse responsibilities CEOs engage in daily. The mental, physical, and psychological strains of their relentless 'GO' mode can be overwhelming. The challenge is discerning, especially when to intervene before this pace leads to burnout.  A very real consequence that can incapacitate even the most resilient CEOs.

Burnout doesn't discriminate. It's not only detrimental to the individual but has a ripple effect on the entire organization. The perpetual 'GO' mode of a CEO sets the tempo for the entire team, and it's up to you – Chief of Staff, Executive Assistant, or Chief Administrative Officer – to manage their time effectively and recognize when to intervene. In moments of heightened pressure, assertive communication becomes key. We cannot afford to let the company, the team, or ourselves become casualties of burnout.

I challenge each one of you to be unwavering in this aspect, to recognize when to triage, and to persist when it's time to apply the brakes and breathe. Personal experience has taught me the consequences of being stuck in 'GO' mode, to the extent my team, friends, and hairdresser urged, "Get on that plane and take that vacation!" It was a painful realization, and the root cause traced back to work overload in a growing entrepreneurial company and insufficient delegation. (Guilty as charged.)

Here are some telltale signs that you or your CEO might be veering towards burnout, along with proactive steps to prevent it from escalating into a catastrophic situation. Consider this yet another invaluable skill in the toolkit of Chief of Staffs, Executive Assistants, and Chief Administrative Officers, contributing to the seamless operation of organizations at their optimum potential.

Signs of CEO Burnout:

• Overwhelming Fatigue:

• Sign: Constant exhaustion and an inability to recharge despite rest.

• Action: Encourage regular breaks and consider revisiting and optimizing task delegation strategies.

• Deteriorating Performance:

• Sign: Decline in decision-making quality and a slump in overall performance.

• Action: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss workload and provide additional support or resources if needed.

• Isolation and Withdrawal:

• Sign: CEO becomes increasingly withdrawn and disengaged from the team.

• Action: Foster an open communication environment, perhaps even encouraging team-building activities to enhance cohesion.

• Physical and Mental Health Issues:

• Sign: Noticeable decline in health, both physically and mentally.

• Action: Advocate for regular health check-ups and wellness programs, emphasizing the importance of a healthy work-life balance.

• Increased Irritability and Impatience:

• Sign: Short-tempered reactions and impatience with colleagues and tasks.

• Action: Promote stress-relief techniques and possibly consider workload redistribution.

Preventive Measures:

• Delegate Effectively:

• Clearly define roles and responsibilities within the team.

• Establish a structured delegation process to distribute tasks efficiently.

• Encourage Time Off:

• Promote the utilization of vacation days and breaks.

• Normalize taking time off as an essential aspect of maintaining productivity.

• Regular Check-Ins:

• Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to discuss workload and stress levels.

• Provide a platform for open communication and feedback.

• Wellness Programs:

• Implement wellness initiatives such as fitness challenges or mindfulness sessions.

• Foster a workplace culture that prioritizes both physical and mental well-being.

• Flexible Work Arrangements:

• Consider flexible schedules or remote work options.

• Recognize the importance of work-life balance and support employees in achieving it.

HR's Role: Recognizing the Need for Additional Support:

Human Resources teams, you play a pivotal role in recognizing when the existing team structure may not be sufficient. If you observe signs of overload, consider advocating for the addition of roles such as Executive Assistants (EAs), Chiefs of Staff (COS), or Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs). These professionals can provide invaluable support in managing the CEO's workload and preventing burnout.

For EAs, COS, and CAOs: Recognizing Your Own Need for Support:

If you're already in these supporting roles, acknowledge that your dedication is commendable. However, it's crucial to recognize when you, too, may need additional assistance to manage your workload effectively. Don't hesitate to communicate this need to ensure the entire support system remains robust.

In conclusion, your collective role is pivotal in safeguarding not just the CEO but the entire organizational ecosystem from the perils of burnout. By recognizing the signs and implementing preventive measures, you contribute significantly to the sustainable success of the company. Let's empower our leaders to thrive, not just survive. Now is the time to implement your plan.

Diane Steele, CEO of Steele Recruiting offers National Executive Search services for Executive Assistants supporting C-Suite Executives, and private career coaching.

Schedule a new Senior Executive Assistant or Chief of Staff candidate or new search client consultation by clicking here.

Diane can be contacted at diane@steelerecuiting.com or steelerecruiting.com.