The Top 6 Mindsets of Effective CEOs

It’s a challenge to be an effective CEO, even if you are the most experienced one out there. Perhaps this is because in today’s corporate world, this leadership role requires you to be constantly updating and upgrading your mindsets. If you’re stuck on one way of doing things, you won’t be nearly as effective as a CEO. Here are the top six mindsets that true leaders should seek to master:

Transporter Mindset

The successful CEO leads from the front, middle, back and side. They know that different situations call for different actions, and they know when to take which position. Think of them as a characters from Star Trek, knowing when to “beam in” and take action. Here are the multi-dimensions of a true transporter mindset:

• • Side
    Side action means cheering people on, giving them direction or letting them know when they’re moving off course or getting too close to the edge. The CEO remains constantly in tune with their staff’s performance.
  • Back
    This CEO knows that nobody on the team can be left behind. They ask questions such as, “Does everyone have what they need to be successful?” They shine the spotlight on the team and the results — not on themselves.
  • Middle
    This is when the CEO takes a regular inventory of those surrounding them, seeking engagement from the front, back and sides. This CEO engages with each person in different ways, and their main focus is to serve others. To them, that is true success.
  • Front
    This is the most obvious of positions for the CEO, but it’s not always the correct one. At times, this is exactly where an effective CEO should be. Energizing, setting an example and clearing a path for the team to follow.

Decisive Mindset

This CEO knows when to make the tough calls – but more importantly, how to be accountable for the outcomes. They get the data, make a definite decision and then stay with it as long as it makes sense. CEOs often have to change course. They are all about passion as well as profit. Many people may be perfect on paper, but are otherwise uncommitted to achieving success as a group.

Prosperous Mindset

A good CEO sees challenges as opportunities to grow and even prosper. In the face of adversity, this type of CEO is the leader who sees problems as learning opportunities. They don’t focus on what’s lacking, but how it can be improved.

Performance Mindset

The best CEOs choose the best talent consistently. They set the bar high and focus on performance metrics relevant to meeting business goals.

Engaged Mindset

The best CEOs are also engaged and engaging, and they seek engagement. To avoid having a warped perception, great CEOs stay engaged by regularly getting “out there.” They talk with all employees, spending quality time with all people in the organization, regardless of level or department. Staying in the leadership team bubble is comfortable, but it’s not great leadership.

Emotive Mindset

Finally, successful CEOs understand when to show emotion (EQ). This is more about how a CEO makes the team feel: Leadership is not always driving and hard hitting. Good leaders share the “whys” with their team — why the company exists, and the higher mission and purpose for the organization. It’s not just about getting things done, but understanding the bigger picture.

Of course, in the end, research shows that leadership success is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Remembering the above points, and making an effort to focus on each leadership aspect, will ensure that in your role as CEO you are making the best possible impact and leading your team towards shared success.