How long did it take for your C-suite to see HR as a business accelerator? If you are like most CHROs I know, it was not overnight.
Late nights, trial and error, and the constant push to move HR beyond a support function - it is exhausting. And even when you succeed, the game does not stop. The best CHROs keep learning, adapting, and staying ahead.
After working with hundreds of CHROs, I have seen what separates those who drive real business impact from those who stay stuck. The most successful CHROs actively sharpen five critical skills that position HR as a business accelerator.
1. Staying Relevant and Leading the Future of HR
Most CHROs know they need to stay ahead of trends - but who has time to read everything? Those who keep their edge develop a system for continuous learning, focusing on insights that actually impact business strategy.
Inside CHRO School: A shortcut to staying sharp without information overload, plus Summaries That Save Time (STST) for fast insights.
2. Building a High-Performing HR Leadership Team
You cannot focus on strategy if you are constantly pulled into HR operations. The most effective CHROs hire for potential and build consultative, strategic HR teams that operate at the same level as their business partners.
Inside CHRO School: Interview guides, coaching prompts, and an approach for identifying HR leaders who are business advisors - not just order takers.
3. Repositioning HR as a Business Driver
HR is not just a function - it is a lever for business growth. But for HR to have that impact, CHROs must reposition their role as a trusted business advisor.
Inside CHRO School: A simple roadmap for CHROs to transform HR from tactical to strategic, plus a listening tour guide to align with business priorities.
4. Building Influence, Branding and Board Visibility
Some CHROs struggle to get a voice at the table. Others attract board invitations, speaking engagements, and top talent - without adding more work. The difference? They repurpose their biggest strategic wins to build influence.
Inside CHRO School: A three-step framework for positioning yourself as a strategic leader, plus LinkedIn optimization tools for increasing visibility.
5. Creating a Personal Board of Advisors
The smartest CHROs do not navigate this alone. They surround themselves with a personal board of advisors - peers, mentors, and trusted experts who accelerate learning and decision-making.
Inside Chro School: A step-by-step networking playbook to build a strategic CHRO advisory network.
Want Access to All Five Modules Completely Free?
That is why I built CHROSchool.com - to help CHROs accelerate impact without wasting years figuring it out.
Join here → CHROSchool.com
Be well
Cindy Lu
P.S. If you are a sitting Chief HR or People Officer at a co. with over 500 employees, apply to learn more about CHRO Mastermind Groups https://www.chropartners.com/
