So, you dream of the corner office? One thing to remember is that along with that ambition comes the responsibility of dealing with a whole bunch of people trying to rise up below you.
The thought of being at the top is enchanting. You may allow your mind to run wild with thoughts of captaincy, authority, vision and all that other good stuff your dreams tell you are the meaning of being a CEO. But guess what? It’s not for everyone. Why? The realization of that dream is a massive undertaking: You will have to oversee every aspect of the business.
And that’s just the beginning. Take a look at these five things to focus on before you pursue — and perhaps down the line accept — a position as the captain of a ship.
Learn To Say No
Turning down requests or ideas is a learned behavior -- and one you’re better off mastering quickly. A CEO’s mission is to keep perpetuating a vision for the business; that means always being on the lookout for new ideas without being tempted to try every one. Along with vision comes the intuitive process of what is good for the future of the business. Is the idea a distraction or will it contribute to the main raison d’être of the business?
Learn To Promote Your Business
A good CEO is interactive in promoting the business. You never know where the next idea, alliance or collaboration may come from. Building a case for your business lets people know you have a passion for and belief in what you do and what the business can do for those listening. It means having a real and true understanding of your business and what it can contribute to people and to the community.
Learn To Read Financials
The best way to stay ahead of problems and opportunities like potential embezzlement and takeovers or acquisitions is the ability not only to read but also interpret financial statements. It's a great skill to have when negotiating with banks, investors or potential partners. Remember, there’s always someone who can spot something you may have missed. So be wise, be thorough and, if need be, get outside expertise.
Learn To Be Open To Critics
Everyone loves to take a shot at the big guy. It’s part of the job that nobody wants, but everyone has something to say about it. It's a merciless position that has you listening to a myriad of interpretations about you, your team, your business. The secret? Don’t take it personally. Just be proactive with the things you can change, because no matter what, people who are ignorant to the process and what is involved will always have something to say. All they want, really, is to see change — therefore, it just becomes noise in the end. As the saying goes: "Ignorance, we can fix. Stupidity is forever.”
Learn The Business From Every Angle
Whenever a CEO takes over a business, it’s not just about financials, meetings and strategy. It’s about understanding the inner workings of the business itself. From the production line to the manufacturing department to shipping and delivery, the CEO should understand and witness every function that contributes to the bottom line. This way, in case of emergency, a CEO can step in and show that their position is not relegated to the corner office only — that they have earned their respective title because they not only know their job, but they know everyone else's, too.
