Becoming the Consiglieri: How to Manage Up and Lead from the Second Chair

Years ago, as the president of my company was preparing to retire, he handed me a book called Consiglieri: Leading from the Shadows. I still remember his words: “I want you to be the best second you can be to the new president.” That gift—and that charge—stuck with me. 

In the classic sense, a consiglieri is the trusted advisor, the steady voice of reason, the one who sees around corners and supports the leader without needing the spotlight. They’re not just the “number two”—they are the strategic right hand, ensuring the leader’s vision becomes reality. 

That’s the essence of managing up. 

Whether you’re new to a role or deep into your leadership journey, managing up isn’t about politics or flattery. It’s about being a partner to your boss. It's about thinking beyond your own desk and leading with influence. 

Here are three ways to become the consiglieri your leader needs: 

1. Understand Their Priorities 

What keeps your boss up at night? What metrics, goals, or challenges do they care most about? 
Your job: Get crystal clear on what matters most to them and align your work to support those goals. When you understand their “why,” you become indispensable. 

2. Adapt to Their Communication Style 

Do they prefer bullet points over backstories? Quick texts over scheduled meetings? 
Your job: Mirror how they communicate. It’s not about changing who you are—it’s about making your message land. The more you adapt, the more your insights are heard and valued. 

3. Build Trust Through Consistency 

Trust isn’t built in a single moment—it’s built over time. 
Your job: Show up. Deliver. Keep your word. Stay positive. Consistency is the quiet superpower of those who lead from the second chair. 

This is exactly what we teach in The Esther Project. The women in our program learn how to think strategically, understand how their leaders think, and communicate in a way that drives collective success. It's not about fitting into a mold—it’s about showing up as your full, authentic self and learning how to lead from any seat at the table. 

Applications are now open for the May Cohort of The Esther Project, kicking off on May 12. 
Ready to step into your role as a modern-day Consiglieri? 

👉 Click below to apply now and learn more in a free strategy call!

If you're ready to become the Consiglieri your leader needs, here’s your next step: 

Choose one of the three areas—understanding priorities, adapting communication, or building trust—and commit to focusing on it over the next 30 days. 
Observe, adjust, and take note of the impact. Small shifts can create big momentum. 

And if you're looking for guidance on how to think more strategically, speak with impact, and better understand your leader’s mindset—The Esther Project is your next move. 

Applications are now open for the May Cohort, starting May 12. 
👉 Click below to apply now and learn more in a free strategy call!