As newly-minted CEOs emerge from their training to lead a company, they realize the position is much more complex than anticipated. Most are surprised by the demands of attending to shareholders, analysts, board members, industry groups, and politicians. These external requirements distract the new CEO from daily operations.
When assuming their new position, the first thing a new CEO will consider is how their peers perceive them. This can significantly impact the company's culture, so it is crucial to get it correct as soon as feasible. Creating a favorable first impression will assist you in gaining the trust and confidence of your team. It is also essential to communicate the qualities you seek in your leadership team and to share your vision for the company's future.
As the new chief executive officer, you must rapidly evaluate all your direct reports and critical stakeholders. This includes determining how to gain their support for your promotion. It also involves reenlisting them through direct and immediate conversations. This requires you to eliminate all barriers, whether they are based on race or gender.
Regardless of their subtlety, your words and actions send a signal throughout the organization that could have enormous repercussions. Even the most benign actions or comments can be misconstrued in an instant, particularly if you are new to the role.
Therefore, it is essential to maintain your priorities and have your information readily available. This demonstrates your dedication to leadership and professionalism, which CEOs will remember.
You may have had excellent supervisors in the past, but they are no longer in charge of you. Your success or failure in your new position depends heavily on how well you manage the employees you supervise.
The new CEO you're replacing will likely have much more experience than you do, and the organization likely has established systems and procedures. However, your new supervisor is still a person whose initial impressions of you matter. To have a long-lasting, positive impact on the company, you should take the time to develop a relationship with your supervisor. It is also wise to control your personal life so you can be your best self at work.
Your position as CEO is challenging, so it is only natural that you occasionally feel apprehensive. Especially when you must make uncharted decisions, you can anticipate experiencing distress. However, it is essential to recognize that these emotions can also provide useful information.
During your first 90 days as CEO, you must acquire the trust and respect of the organization's managers. This can be achieved by actively attending to what each department says rather than merely advising or re-directing them.
