Five top qualities of a chief executive

Is being a strong leader with years of expertise enough to make you a good CEO? What other skills and qualities can you integrate into your style to help you achieve success under pressure?
The role of a CEO is a versatile one. Often, they are the face of the company to internal and external stakeholders, liaising with management, the board, and the public. They are responsible for the long-term strategy of the company and for instilling brand values in employees.

1. Vision
A CEO should have a clear direction in which they want to steer their business. Ambition and optimism are good things when grounded in reality, and the head of a company needs to believe in those goals. Being able to inspire others to buy into your vision is an important tool in leadership.

2. Receptiveness
It is crucial to listen to others around you. Fellow executives and company directors are there to advise you on their areas of expertise - accepting their input on decisions is vital.
Demonstrating good listening skills and genuine interest in the concern of others promotes your image internally, improves your understanding of how the business operates day-to-day, and will generally lead to better business decisions.

3. Motivation
The ability to pursue a goal with enthusiasm and instil that same attitude in others is a key component of a good CEO.
Getting the best out of your business means getting the best out of your people. Colleagues who are motivated and invested in the company will work harder and genuinely want to drive the business forward. Learn how to catalyse action in yourself and those around you.

4. Adaptability
Changes in your industry, sector and business can have a profound impact on your strategy, priorities, and the decisions you have to make. Being able to accept that and change direction when necessary can be a powerful tool.
A good CEO should also be able to adapt their role for what the company needs, whether that’s for a multinational conglomerate or a start-up enterprise.

5. Trust
Inspiring trust and being trusting is a mark of a good leader and essential for a CEO. Stakeholders must have faith in your ability and you need to feel confident in delegating to those you work with.
A trusting CEO has more time to focus on the big picture and benefits from a positive working environment where staff capability is recognised.

Adapted from www.icas.com