Finding the right leadership style as a CEO can significantly impact your company’s success, workplace culture, and overall vision execution. But with so many leadership models out there, how do you find one that truly fits? Here’s a step-by-step guide to uncovering and honing your authentic leadership style.
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- Know Yourself: Self-Assessment Is Key
Before developing your leadership style, take a deep dive into understanding your personality, strengths, and weaknesses. Consider tools like Myers-Briggs or DISC assessments to give you a foundational understanding of how you naturally operate. Once you know how you think and react in various situations, you can better align your leadership to those traits.
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- Reflect on moments when you’ve felt most empowered or successful as a leader. What traits or behaviors contributed to that feeling?
- Gather feedback from peers, colleagues, or a trusted mentor. They can provide insights into your leadership tendencies.
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- Understand the Needs of Your Organization
Leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all. The needs of a startup CEO differ greatly from those of a multinational corporation. Assess your organization’s culture, its goals, and the team dynamics. A CEO of a fast-paced tech company may need to adopt a more transformational leadership style, while a CEO of a stable, traditional company may benefit from a more transactional or servant leadership approach.
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- Talk to your management team and employees about their needs and expectations from leadership.
- Adapt your style to the demands of your company’s growth stage. For example, during a crisis, a more authoritative or decisive approach may be required.
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- Experiment and Adapt
Leadership is an evolving skill. What worked in the past might not serve the future. Flexibility is key. Try different approaches—maybe blend styles like transformational leadership, where you inspire and motivate, with a bit of democratic leadership, which encourages feedback from your team.
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- Keep a leadership journal where you record different strategies you’ve employed and how your team responds.
- Regularly review the effectiveness of your leadership methods and make adjustments as necessary.
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- Seek Continuous Learning
Leadership development doesn’t stop once you become a CEO. Stay ahead by continually refining your skills. Attend seminars, read leadership books, or engage with a coach. Being open to feedback and learning helps you evolve with your organization’s changing needs.
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- Make reading a habit—start with books like “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek or “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries.
- Attend leadership workshops or join CEO forums where you can share insights with peers.
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- Embrace Authenticity
Authentic leadership is a critical component in building trust. A leader who stays true to their values and communicates openly will create a more engaged and motivated team. Your leadership style should feel natural to you—don’t try to fit into a mold simply because it’s trendy or highly regarded in the business world.
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- Be transparent with your team about your leadership journey. Show them you’re committed to growth and learning.
- Align your values with your company’s mission to create consistency in your leadership approach.
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Ultimately, the best leadership style is one that fits both who you are and what your company needs. By reflecting on your strengths, adapting to your environment, and committing to continuous learning, you’ll discover the leadership approach that will lead your company to new heights.
We would love to hear your comments or questions. Contact us today!
Gary Brunson
gary@myclearfocus.com
Debra Rider
debra@myclearfocus.com
574.361.2674
Sustainable Growth & Profit Consultant, Coach, Mentor, and Counselor/Therapist for Business Owners and Professionals.