| Written by Lisa Hood,
on 02-12-2008 18:40
|
Views : 766  |
Favoured : 58 |
Published in : , Motivation |
Tags : chief executive officer, personal success, strategic vision, responsible manner, top dog, social responsibility, norms, morality, convictions, ceo, board of directors, legislation, investors, rsquo, enron, people, act, focus, socially responsible, board directors |
A Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO) primary responsibility is to make a business profitable, by creating a strategic vision and leading others towards achievement of that vision. A CEO also determines how a business is perceived in the market, by competitors, investors and employees. Their actions are the standard to which the company is judged. (Enron anyone?)
To be successful, act as though you are CEO of your life.You must fulfill certain duties; the way in which you do so creates an image for the world to see. How do you want to be viewed, by your associates, investors and competitors?
Consider the major functions of a successful CEO and apply them to create personal success in your life.
1. Answer to the Board – A CEO is the Top Dog, but he is still answerable to a Board of Directors. A CEO must play by the rules, but shouldn’t hesitate to challenge unfair, unreasonable or unjust practices.
- Do you act in socially responsible manner?
We’re not all destined to save the world, but most of us do have a sense of social responsibility. Do what you can to make the world better for us all, even if you just refrain from littering.
- Do you act for the good of all, without endangering or intentionally harming others?
The most successful individuals are those who provide value to others in a positive manner. You don’t have to climb over bodies to arrive at the top. In fact, there will be plenty of people willing to give you a boost when you focus on contribution to others.
- Do you stand up by your convictions?
- Do you challenge society norms if they are contrary to what you believe is honorable, moral and just?
Don’t rely strictly on legality to determine if an action is right or wrong. Morality shouldn’t require legislation to be practiced in life. If you encounter morally reprehensible behaviors or policies, at work, school or within your community, challenge them. Other people are probably just as appalled and will rally to your side when you make a stand.
2. Strategic Planning – A CEO knows their product and their market. They create the strategic plans to ensure success, the development of new products, marketing and promotion and a vision for long term growth. They monitor their success and make adjustments, while never losing sight of their ultimate destination.
- Do you have a vision of your future success?
- Have you created a plan to achieve your goals?
Set effective goals that are specific and measurable. You goal should be stated in a way that you know when you have achieved it. For example, a goal to “Earn more money” is ambiguous, whereas “Earn $25,000 in the next 30 days” is specific, measurable and time bound.
Do not state goals in the future sense, because it reaffirms a state of lack. Avoid the words will, try, plan or should. Replace future tense words with present tense. For example: “I will earn $25,000 in the next 30 days” stated as “I have earned $25,000 in 30 days.”
- Do you have a clear understanding of your motivations, strengths and weaknesses?
- Do you consistently take action to achieve your goals, even when the results aren’t exactly what you expected?
- Are you excited about your goals and committed to achieving them?
3. Financial and Facilities Management – A CEO manages the company’s resources, allocating funds to support necessary programs and ensuring compliance to laws and regulations.
- Do you protect your resources?
There are resources available for financial planning, budgeting and investing, but we often overlook the most precious resources in our life: relationships and physical health. Spend time with loved ones and treat them with courtesy and respect. Exercise, eat well and get plenty of sleep.
- Do you manage your resources wisely?
- Do you use your resources according to your long term goals?
4. Human Resource Management - A CEO determines the company’s personnel through his expectations of performance, ethics and attitude. Individuals may be hired based on experience, innovation, education or willingness to learn, according on what the CEO values, and what will contribute to his vision.
- Do you surround yourself with people who support your goals?
- Do you use the knowledge and skills of others when taking action?
- Do you treat others with respect and generosity when they help you achieve your goals?
5. Community and Public Relations – No company operates in a vacuum. CEOs assure positive interaction with the community by endorsing volunteer activities, safety and public awareness. The CEO must present a strong, positive image, consistent with their actions.
- Do you act according to your beliefs?
There are no shortcuts to success and you may think, “Just this once, I’ll cheat” or “Just this once, I’ll lie.” Whether you’re caught or not doesn’t matter a bit, because you’ll always know the truth. Diverging from your moral path will cause you to doubt your entitlement and ultimately self sabotaging behaviors will emerge. Don’t stray and hope for the best. Use your moral compass and stay on course. No one is more qualified for the position of CEO in your life than you.
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