Leadership Secrets of the World’s Most Successful CEOs

Leadership Secrets of the World’s Most Successful CEOs

Jun 06

(Based on the book with the same title published by Dearborn Trade Publishing and authored by Eric Yaverbaum)

I am now reading Eric Yaverbaum’s “Leadership Secrets of the World’s Most Successful CEOs. While reading the advice of such competent and successful corporate leaders, I couldn’t help but analyze their experiences and comments from the vantage point of Philippines, Inc. Here are nuggets of wisdom that seem simple enough, yet not too common in daily governance:

William H. Goodwin, Jr., CEO, CCA Industries : “Make good, simple, honest, and ethical decisions.”

James M. Anderson, President, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center : “Be nimble in pursuing opportunity.”

Archie W. Dunham, Chairman, ConocoPhillips :I learned a powerful leadership secret when I was in the United States Marine Corps. It was called the Five Ps : Priorp planning prevents poor performance.”

David A. Brandon, Chairman and CEO, Domino’s Pizza : “It is important to be a coach and a teacher. Lead by example. Articulate a vision. Find out how peole want to be treated and treat them that way. Build a great team. Surround yourself with people smarter than you are.”

Bruce T. Coleman, CEO, El Salto Advisors :”Periodically write yourself an honest report card and work on your weakneses. Your brain or gut will nag you if something is not right. Learn to act on its message, no matter how difficult. Ignoring the warning will be at your peril.”

Dorothy Cann Hamilton, Founder and CEO, The French Culinary Institute : “To be a good leader you must surround youself with good people. Believe in them. Let them show you what they can do. Don’t be overly critical, and remember to say thank you.”

Sy Sperling, Founder and President (retired), Hair Club for Men (HCM) : “What helped me was one powerful idea – to realize my own shortcomings and tap into the creativity and expertise of others to fill the gaps in my own knowledge and abilities.”

There are so many other “secrets to success” dished out by the CEOs handpicked for this book. If you study most of their secrets, a common theme is the respect they have for people, be it customers or the people they work with. I do recommend this book especially for those starting a new business. Happy Reading!