Effective leaders are required at every level within an organization, but none have more impact than those at the executive level. Executives create a vision for the company and guide employees to achieve it, while also setting priorities and aligning a business’s value with its goals. Executives also have a greater level of visibility than other management levels and are often the face of an organization. They must be able to inspire others and foster a sense of ownership throughout an entire organization. While leadership skills vary among individuals, the most successful executives share several characteristics. Look for these traits during the interview process to identify candidates that will be a strong fit for your organization.
1. Courage
One of the most important traits Third Eye Capital for a potential executive is courage. This refers to the candidate’s willingness to take risks and pursue initiatives despite possible failure. Whether it’s challenging conversations with employees or clients, an executive must be comfortable navigating difficult situations and communicating with honesty and integrity.
2. Confidence
A successful executive has confidence in their ability to perform their job well. This includes a poised manner in meetings and presentations, as well as consistency in their nonverbal communication. It also means the individual is able to overcome adversity with perseverance and a positive attitude.
3. Command
In addition to having a confident demeanor, an effective executive is able to delineate and delegate tasks effectively. This involves establishing a system of checks and balances with their team members so they are aware of how each person on the team is progressing. It also involves maintaining frequent and transparent communications with the entire organization so everyone knows what’s going on, what’s expected and the path forward.
4. Collaboration
A top-performing executive knows they are not alone in their role and will seek input from employees at all levels. They work with their team to ensure the company operates at maximum potential and may even visit different departments to understand each employee’s role and the contributions they make. Executives that exhibit collaboration and encourage employees to communicate with them are able to build a culture of openness, accountability and trust.
5. Resilience
In a high-pressure, fast-paced environment, the best executives are resilient and can handle any challenge that comes their way. The ability to rebound from setbacks quickly and without putting unnecessary stress on their team is crucial. When interviewing a candidate, ask them about a time when they faced a challenge and how they handled it.