Most Important Skills for a Director of Business Operations at Select Star
Alec, a Director of Business Operations at Select Star, emphasizes the importance of "being proactive" and "managing up" in a startup environment where independent problem-solving and a strong sense of ownership are crucial. Effective communication, both internally and with customers, is also highlighted as a critical skill for success in this multifaceted role.
Proactive Problem Solving, Ownership and Accountability, Effective Communication, High-Level Problem Solving, Strategic Thinking
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Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
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Alec Bialosky
Director of Business Operatins
Select Star
Tufts 2011
UCLA Anderson (MBA)
Engineering - Civil
Technology
Operations and Project Management
Video Highlights
1. Proactiveness and initiative are crucial for success, especially in smaller companies where independent work is more common. The interviewee emphasizes managing upwards and taking ownership of tasks.
2. Strong problem-solving skills are essential due to the diverse range of responsibilities and challenges encountered daily. The ability to find solutions independently and take initiative is key.
3. Excellent communication skills are vital for both internal team collaboration and external customer interactions. Effectively conveying information and persuading others are highlighted as critical skills
Transcript
What skills are important for a job like yours?
I think being proactive is really important. At a startup, we're a small company and I don't really have a manager. I report to the CEO, but she has other, more important things to do than to make sure I'm doing my job.
So, I like to call it "managing up." It's making sure I'm being proactive about letting her know what I need and where I am with things, and sort of reducing her need to worry about me.
I also come across a lot of problems that I haven't had to tackle before because I'm wearing a lot of hats and doing a lot of things that I don't do every day. Being able to problem-solve and figure those things out without constantly throwing up my hands and saying I can't do it is key.
Having a strong sense of ownership is also really important. It means holding myself to a high standard and making sure I'm doing work that I'm proud of, and that the company can be proud of, because I don't have people reviewing what I do before it goes out.
Finally, I think communication skills are really critical, both internally and externally. I do talk a lot to customers. Making sure I'm listening and understanding what they're saying, but also able to effectively communicate our point of view and convince them to see the world the way we do, is essential.
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