Having read my recent post, “The Introvert’s 2013 Business and Leadership Success Pledge,” a colleague asked me to write something similar specifically focusing on CEOs. Through my experience working with hundreds of mid-market CEOs at CEO Connection, I can confidently say the most successful leaders follow this pledge ardently:
The CEO’s 2013 Leadership Pledge:
1. I will get the right people in the right roles. Immediately. Roles where they can leverage their strengths and still have room to grow.
2. I will happily shoulder the role of being Chief Steward of Values. Treating each employee with the respect due every human will be top priority; regardless of whether this is currently one of our “written/stated” values.
3. I will remind myself often, “It’s not about me.”
4. I will be attentive to the fact that everything I do, and not just what I say, sends a message. Employees will be watching me, as will customers, partners, competitors, “the street,” and leaders across industries. I accept the responsibility that accompanies this reality.
5. I will admit what I don’t know, if not to my team then at least to myself. I will seek answers and expertise and ensure my ego never gets in the way of my company’s success.
6. I will set every one of my employees up for success, with appropriate resources and opportunities for development.
7. I will make leadership development a priority, recognizing that leadership must be strong throughout the entire organization and not just at the top.
8. I will commit to giving feedback, both positive and instructive, on a regular and timely basis with the intent of nurturing success in every one of my team members.
9. I will recognize the impact of our company culture on the day-to-day lives of each employee, as well as the impact on our company brand, and will cultivate an environment that attracts the best talent in our industry.
10. Most importantly, I will create a clear and inspiring vision of where I am leading the company, and will communicate to every employee, partner and collaborator how important their role is in bringing this vision to life!
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Photo of Leadership by Ed Gaillard.
10 Response Comments
Lisa, great article – I always enjoy your perspective. I see some real shifts happening in leadership and the open mindedness of c-level executives we are working with. You may enjoy 2 of our recent posts on leadership which I’d love your thoughts. Successful Leaders for the 21st Century http://www.emotivebrand.com/thought/successful-leaders-for-the-21st-century/ and a softer post Meaningful Leaders Resolution for 2013 http://www.emotivebrand.com/thought/meaningful-leaders-resolutions-for-2013/
I sincerely appreciate that, Tracy, thank you! And thank you for sharing your recent posts and the insight on shifts – VERY promising!
It’s not about me is the best decision/realization any business leader can make. It takes selflessness to succeed.
Absolutely agree; it does take selflessness. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment, Geoff, I sincerely appreciate having you here!
Lisa,
A friend directed me to your site. Excellent points.
In a discussion based on your this post, we were able to come up with a pledge what Ideal Employee of 2013 would make. I have posted it on my site – SelfHelpZen.com.
Thanks again and have a nice evening!
Wow, your post is phenomenal, Utpal! Thank you so much! I’m honored to know my post inspired your team’s discussion and love what you’ve created! All the best of success to you and your team in 2013!
Pleasure is mine Lisa. Thank you again for the inspiration and all the very best to you for 2013 and beyond!
Leaders as Chief Steward of Values! I love it!
Thank you, Jean!