It’s quite an achievement to be the chief executive officer of a company, but what traits are necessary in order to hold the reins?
Following in the steps of your predecessor isn’t always the best course of action. You want to build your personal brand within the company and make productive, significant changes along the way.
Below are six traits that all CEOs should have or acquire:
1. Communication Skills
Being able to communicate with a client is always the most important aspect of the relationship built between them and the company. Communication builds trust and can quell any uncertainty the client may have. Incorporating neuroscience into your communication with a client can help curate a strong relationship, too. By maintaining eye contact, smiling often, and even shaking hands, this emotional approach will increase your client’s levels of oxytocin, the social bonding chemical that helps build a more trusting relationship.
This trait can also be beneficial between the CEO and their team members. It’s imperative that a CEO keeps the morale high in order to have productive employees who get projects done in a timely manner.
2. Realistic Optimism
It’s crucial to have realistic expectations when leading a corporation. No one wants a leader who always expects the unobtainable because then they will never be pleased with the outcome. It’s not a bad thing to reach for the stars, but if you don’t do your research and make sure your goals are possible, then it will become a waste of time and money for the corporation. By all means, take risks, but make sure there’s a possibility for success.
3. Risk-Taking
As previously stated, taking risks can lead to more business for a company. If you were just promoted to a CEO position at a company that’s losing its traction, then risk might be your only option. According to a Harvard Business Review study, one of two essential traits that a CEO acquires is being able to take applicable risks. This trait will convey confidence to your team and further instill their trust in your abilities as their leader.
4. Organization
This doesn’t mean having a neat and spotless office. Being organized means having the ability to figure out how to properly see the bigger picture in all areas of business. A good CEO should be prepared for anything, from finding the solution to a crisis to discovering an opportunity that can bring exponential growth to the company.
5. Continual Networking
Regardless of a company’s revenue level, it’s always a good idea to continue expanding your contacts list. CEOs can be creative with this trait by constantly building new partnerships with prospective clients or prominent board members. Applying this characteristic can raise awareness about the new practices or exercises the company is participating in, in order to boost revenue.
6. Preparedness
No company is perfect, and that’s why a good CEO is always prepared for bad news. They shouldn’t just ignore the bad things that happen. CEOs should always be aware of negative issues that befall the company. If they didn’t know, then how are they supposed to prevent the same issue from happening again? They won’t.
There are countless attributes that make a good CEO. Use common sense when you’re in the office. If you think you don’t fall into any of these categories, then maybe check out seminars or workshops that focus on improving leadership skills.