Why Every Leader Needs a #2

Why Every Leader Needs a #2: The Power of Mentoring and Succession Planning

As a leader, you know firsthand how important it is to have someone by your side who understands your vision, shares your values, and can step in when needed. That’s where having a #2—someone you’re training or mentoring—comes in. 

Let’s break down why every leader needs a #2 and how mentoring one can make all the difference (this can apply to every leader in an organization, not just the owner or CEO).

1. Keep the Vision Alive

You’ve worked hard to build something meaningful, but have you thought about how your vision will continue if you’re not there every day? Having a #2—someone who’s aligned with your mission and understands the ins and outs of the business—ensures that the core values and culture you’ve cultivated live on.

A well-trained #2 isn’t just a backup; they’re someone who can keep things running smoothly while also bringing new ideas to the table. When the time comes for you to step back (whether it’s for a break or permanently), you can do so knowing the business is in good hands.

2. Free Yourself Up for What Really Matters

As a leader, it’s easy to get bogged down in the daily grind. But your time is best spent on big-picture strategy, innovation, big relationships, and making high-impact decisions. By mentoring a #2, you can delegate some of the day-to-day responsibilities and focus on what only you can do (HABU - highest and best use).

Having someone you trust to handle operational tasks means you can step away when needed, whether it’s for a family vacation or to take on a new project. Your #2 can hold down the fort while you’re away, allowing you to recharge or focus on what’s next for the business.

3. Prepare for the Future

Let’s face it—none of us are going to be in our current role forever. Succession planning might not be the most exciting thing to think about, but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make. Training a #2 means you’re preparing someone to step into your shoes when the time comes.

This isn’t just about filling a role—it’s about grooming someone to understand the complexities of leadership and make thoughtful decisions. When the time comes for you to move on, get promoted, or retire, your #2 will be ready to take the reins, keeping the business strong and stable.

4. Foster a Growth-Oriented Culture

Mentoring a #2 isn’t just about grooming your successor; it’s about creating a culture where growth and development are a priority. When your team sees that you’re investing in others and helping them rise, it sends a powerful message: this is a place where people can grow.

And here’s the kicker—your #2 will likely start mentoring others too, creating a ripple effect throughout the organization. Before you know it, you’ve built a team where learning and leadership development are baked into the culture.

5. Build Trust and Collaboration

A #2 is more than just an assistant—they’re your partner in leadership. When you have someone by your side who you trust, it fosters a deeper sense of collaboration. Your #2 can act as a go-between with other departments, help smooth over communication issues, and offer you fresh perspectives.

Plus, when you involve them in decision-making, you’re showing the entire team that trust and transparency are central to how you lead. It’s a win-win: your #2 grows in their role, and your team sees that you’re building a collaborative environment.

6. Avoid Burnout

Let’s be real—leading can be exhausting. Trying to do everything yourself isn’t sustainable or fun, and burnout is a real threat. That’s why having a strong #2 can be a game-changer. They can share the load, take on some of the stress, and give you the space to step away when you need it.

Whether it’s a much-needed vacation or just a mental break, knowing your #2 has things under control allows you to take care of yourself without worrying that everything will fall apart.

The Bottom Line: Build Your Legacy

Leadership isn’t just about what you achieve while you’re in charge; it’s about what you leave behind. By mentoring a #2, you’re investing in the future of your business and ensuring that your legacy of strong leadership and smart decisions continues.

So, if you don’t already have a #2, now is the time to start thinking about who that person could be. Who can you invest in and mentor to help carry the torch forward? Trust me, it’ll pay off in ways you can’t even imagine.

Ryan Giles