BETA
This is a BETA experience. You may opt-out by clicking here

More From Forbes

Edit Story

Great Tips For Succeeding As A Senior Executive Leader

Following
This article is more than 7 years old.

We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations.” – Navy SEAL Creed

Having worked with outstanding leaders as a Navy SEAL in combat and built high-performing teams in the business world, I have developed unique insights into the leadership qualities necessary for being successful as a senior executive.

As part of a new interview series, I have been collecting feedback from other senior leaders across many different organizations and industries to share their perspectives. This article is for senior executive leaders and those who aspire to climb the corporate ladder and lead teams to greatness.

“What does it take to be a great CEO or senior executive leader?”

"The most important quality of a CEO is to take risks, and take calculated risks. This is why you're at the top of the hierarchy, because you're able to do that. You're in an envious position and if you wish to stay there, you must do what others cannot."

Adam Garcia, CEO at Ultimate Stock Alerts

"I would say it is not one skill, but a mix of several skills that come together to make one a successful CEO. CEOs have to be smart, authoritative and knowledgeable in what they do. If they lack any of the required skills, they will fail in their capacity."

Daniel Cohen, Online Marketer

"The role of a CEO or a business owner is constantly changing, and is more dynamic today. If I had to pin down one important skill, I would say the ability to deliver. That's the most important thing. Everyone looks to the top and when you're sitting there you must deliver in your capacity. And trust me, it's a lot easier said than done."

Josh Cartu, CEO at SandStorm Holdings

"The role of a CEO is constantly changing, but I'd say at its core it remains what it was centuries ago, and it will continue to be so. CEOs are supposed to do what CEOs do, and that is to lead. But the tools are changing, and today's leaders must get used to the new leadership tools if they wish to excel in their roles, and the ability to adapt is their most important quality."

John Hairabedian, CEO at Hgreg

"A number of people think that all CEOs do is sit and sign papers, which is completely untrue. They're burdened with the heaviest of duties and have to make the toughest of decisions. And this I would say is their most important skill, the ability to make the right decision at the right time."

Trevor Gerszt, CEO at GoldCo Precious Metals

“It is important to understand that you can't know and do everything. Surround yourself with smart people. Listen to their opinions and once you have a complete view, make the best decision based on the information you have.”

Patrick Redmond, Allied Van Lines, Allied.com

“The most important skill is the ability to stay dedicated to the company’s vision. While running a business, there will be many opportunities that come along that are not part of your vision. These are only distractions. The company’s owner or CEO must have the ability to remain focused on the vision of the company without wavering.”

Dr. Barry Burns, Forex Strategies at Top Dog Trading

“You must ask yourself - Can I make a real contribution to society? This 'urge' to 'be able to contribute to society' will force or motivate you to think and think outside the box, till you come up with the real idea, and how to go about it. Business model is thereafter created around this broad objective and eagerness to achieve it.”

Amit Goel, Co - Founder & Creative Director of Grocare India

“Deep understanding of the customer is key to any successful business. The most successful companies have been able to identify a customer pain point well and have stayed focused on solving it. The entrepreneur/CEO has to play a key role in driving this relentless push for customer focus from the team and make it part of the culture. Every individual should be pushed to find the right answer for the customer first.”

Ashish Goel, CEO & Co-founder, Urban Ladder

“To be able to see things on a macro and micro level simultaneously could be one of the most important skills. To be a business owner, one must possess more than just one skills, of course. Multiplicity of thoughts and actions make a real business owner.”

Purnendu Goel, Founder & CEO of Growell India

The great thing about gathering the opinions of those that are in the trenches leading great organizations is that you can see certain commonalities as well as a variance in opinion on the priorities. Great leaders often agree on what it takes to successfully drive a team to achieve results, but their opinions on the most important aspects vary.

What do you think the most important aspect is for being a great senior executive or business owner?

Check out my website