Being an executive isn’t easy, and there isn’t a one size fits all approach to doing business.
If you’re dreaming of landing an executive position, chances are you already know you’ll need to work hard to get there. Hands-on experience is a great way to start, but there is a lot that goes into being an effective leader. Doing an executive MBA, for example, can help you acquire many of the skills shared by CEOs around the world.
But what are these skills, and why are they important in business?
Take a look at the nine traits that make executives successful and help them stay ahead of the curve.
They are good communicators
It’s nearly impossible to lead a team without having top-notch communication skills. For this reason, most executives are not only great storytellers, but also active listeners. They need to be able to handle different forms of communication, from board meetings to one-on-one conversations with lower-ranked employees, with clarity, concision, and compassion.
They positively influence others
Positive attitude can take people far, especially if they’re executives. While it’s important to maintain a sense of authority, the best business leaders also know how to create a healthy work environment that prevents employees from getting overwhelmed in stressful situations; only then their business can truly thrive.
They have global business acumen
Business has never been as global as it is today, and the most successful leaders know this. In order to deliver change and business growth, executives must be able to identify how their decisions will affect their company on a global scale, including the relationship with international partners.
They have a flair for innovation
The business world is becoming increasingly competitive, and executives need to be fast learners if they want to spearhead a successful company. Knowing the ins and outs of the industry is key, but it’s their ability to identify new and innovative strategies that really sets them apart from the rest.
They have an executive presence
Having a strong presence is crucial for executives so not only are they respected, but it also makes it a lot easier for them to close business deals efficiently. Great leaders exude confidence, charisma, professionalism and self-awareness in a way that allows them to connect with others, whether they’re dealing with colleagues, collaborators or clients.
They have a passion for making decisions
Most executives spend the majority of their day making business decisions, and the most successful ones know how to do so with commitment, determination, intelligence, and conviction. It’s definitely an acquired skill, but a necessary one to ensure the smooth running of a business.
They are willing to take calculated risks
High-end executives don’t like to settle, which is a necessary trait as they need to deliver company and industry-wide goals. While they’re sometimes all too willing to take risks, executives also possess the skills necessary to ensure any risks are smart and calculated. And let’s be honest, success isn’t easy to achieve, and a few mistakes along the way can only help teams overcome the fear of failure.
They can multitask and delegate
Between business meetings and supervisory tasks, execs usually have a lot on their plate – but that doesn’t mean they aren’t able to deal with it. By being able to multitask and delegate effectively, they ensure that everyone in the company is working to the best of their ability, creating a well-oiled machine that delivers fast and successful solutions.
They’re not afraid of change
Change can be scary, but it’s also an ongoing element of the business world. Great executives are able to identify challenges and opportunities within the company and make necessary adjustments to tackle them, as radical or unpleasant as they might be. After all, if leading was easy everyone would be doing it.
