What is a Second?

In our previous blog post, “Integrator vs Second”, I outlined that “Second” is an identity, while “Integrator” is a role. Now that we know Second is not confined to a specific role or responsibility, let’s dive deeper into what a Second truly is.

To start, let’s play a quick game with a few “yes or no” questions:

1. Do you know Batman?
2. How about Robin (not Hood)?
3. And Alfred?

Take a moment to think about these three characters. How would you identify them? Who among them is a First and who is a Second?
I’ll give you three minutes to ponder before we continue…

...
...
...

Alright, let’s break it down.

Many of us would say:

• Batman is a First.
• Robin is a Second.
• Alfred is a Second.

If you answered like this, you got the first and last answers right. But wait—what about Robin? Isn’t he a Second? Surprisingly, he is not.

Here’s the correct breakdown:

• Batman = First
• Robin = First in Training
• Alfred = Second

The Difference Between Firsts and Seconds

Robin is not a Second because he’s training to be a First. He’s a First in the making, or what we call a First, Eventually. One day, he’ll take over Batman’s role (though not necessarily the name). Robin carries the possibility and expectation of eventually becoming Batman—a First.

In contrast, Alfred is Batman’s right hand. He’s the Second—the one who supports, empowers, and enables Batman to succeed. Without Alfred working behind the scenes, Batman wouldn’t be nearly as effective.

What Does It Mean to Be a Second?

To further understand Seconds, let’s look at insights from the book How to Be Second, which draws clear contours of what defines a Second:

What Seconds Are Not

• Being Second is not more common in men or women.
• Being Second is not determined by being an introvert or extrovert.
• Being Second is not defined by a specific personality test result.
• Being Second is not related to a particular background.
• Seconds are not exclusively found in business environments.

What Seconds Share

While Seconds don’t fit a rigid mold, here are some cornerstone traits they often share:

• Seconds are team-focused.
• Seconds are collaborative.
• Seconds tend to be generalists in skillset.
• Seconds have a high willingness to serve.
• Seconds appreciate and even seek out hierarchy.
• Seconds have similar things that spark their creativity and interest.
• Seconds put a high emphasis on moving forward with a plan.
• Seconds see causes and implications clearly.
• Seconds tend to avoid the spotlight unless necessary.

The Consigliere: Another Example of a Second

One of my favorite examples of a Second, as mentioned in How to Be Second, is the Consigliere.

If you’ve watched The Godfather, you’ll recognize this role. In the mafia, the Consigliere is the trusted advisor—the Second—who helps the leader make decisions, plan strategies, and maintain order. They’re not training to take over; instead, they operate to support and empower the First.

And honestly, how cool does “Consigliere” sound? I love cool titles like that (future collaborators, please take note!) 😎

Breaking the Mold: Personality Types and Seconds

Now, while certain personality traits overlap with the identity of a Second, it’s important to note that no personality test can fully define a Second. For instance, results like “INTJ” or “INTP” from Myers-Briggs, “High C” from DiSC, or low “Quick Start” from Kolbe are often linked to roles like COO or Second in Command. However, plenty of people with different results—like “ENTP” or “High Quick Start”—also thrive as Seconds.

What matters most is not fitting a specific mold but aligning with the cornerstone traits of a Second: teamwork, collaboration, service, and forward momentum.

Why I’m Still Learning About Seconds

I want to be transparent—I’m still learning about what it means to be a Second. As I write these posts, I’m continually learning, unlearning, and relearning. And that’s what I love about writing: it forces me to explore what others have learned, reflect on those insights, and integrate them into my understanding.

So, what is a Second? At their core, they are the people who empower the First to lead and succeed. They’re not in the spotlight, but they’re indispensable.

Stay tuned as I continue to share what I discover about the invaluable role of Seconds.