What is the difference between a full-time and fractional COO?

Many times, I am asked about what the difference is between a fractional and a full time Chief Operating Officer. Plenty! The differences can be obvious and subtle but can define how you will work with your client over time. It is important that you understand the differences yourself before you work with your client as it can define whether you are going to be succeful or not. Trying to “box in” your engagement to be like your full-time job can lead to misunderstandings and ultimately, tense situations.

???????????????One of the first things I learned when I started out my firm was that I cannot make ANY client do what I want them to do if they don’t want to do it. It’s their company and my role is to help them operate it. Perhaps in the world of full-time executive leadership, you decide on strategy and then drive it. You still can but you MUST ensure that your client is on board with what you want to do. If they disagree after you have stated your case, you need to look at either modifying the strategy or look at other options. If you force your ideas on them, they will resent it over time, especially if your strategy is wrong. I like to make sure we are in agreement and that I have answered all questions before we move forward. If they are not, I’ll offer to look at it in a different way to make us all comfortable. If you cannot reconcile yourself around this premise, you will struggle.

???????????????The second aspect of being a fractional versus full-time that is different is that you will have to work harder to delegate and create a system of “checking in” to ensure what you have delegated is happening or moving along as you want it. You are not going to be available 40 hours per week, so you need to create a process where you provide your direct reports support all week, not just your one or two days with them. I found that using systems such as Slack, Teams, Trello or even old-fashioned email to keep an eye on progress while you are working with somebody else works wonders. It doesn’t take long to send a text asking, “how are we doing?” or “can you send me that report” or “are you okay, do you need anything from me?”. You need to provide solid leadership to the team to work without you and still get things done per your expectations. Your client needs to have faith that you are there for them. This is an easy way to do so.

???????????????The last thing that that is different, yet hard, is you are not with them every hour of every day. That’s not what they pay you for, yet, if you have direct reports, they still may need help all week long. You must understand that your direct reports will have to go to the owner or CEO for help or guidance when you are not available. What you need to do is have a solid process with your owner / CEO on how this will work and what steps will be taken to get you up to speed when you are free. What needs to be clear to your direct reports are what topics should go to the owner and what can wait for you to be available. What you, and the owner do not want, is for them to go to the owner for every little thing and bog them down. This agreement must be made up front and discussed often as your engagement starts. The employees will feel more comfortable going to the owner than you, because change is hard, so you and your client need to work hard here. But remember; you can’t shut the world down until you are available so be understanding of this. And be firm when the process gets bypassed.

???????????????This is not a comprehensive list, but the three key points are helpful when you start out. Keeping in mind that you are there to help them “get their life back” and that not all of your ideas will be accepted is a great start as well as creating a solid communication process when you are not available will help you establish your value and create a solid and fruitful partnership. Reach out to me at [email protected] with questions or schedule a meeting with me at https://calendly.com/djbaughman06/zoom-or-phone-call?to learn more about how a fractional can help you “get your life back!”