5 Steps for CEOs to Lead with Impact

Assuming the role of CEO is a time for celebration—and pause. It’s a time that can be both exhilarating and daunting. Once you’ve spent a few moments toasting your success at achieving this significant milestone it’s time to get down to work.

What are the first items that should be on your agenda? How do you navigate this step and establish yourself as a leader who can lead your company to new heights? I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately in my work with executives across the country. The following five suggestions not only provide a good checklist for newly appointed CEOs but also for existing CEOs to make sure you’re still on top of your game.

1. Understand the Culture
   Step one is to form a deep understanding of the existing company culture. Is it living up to the corporate vision? Is it failing in some way? Getting answers requires communicating with employees at every level of the organization. Maybe you’re walking into a toxic environment that needs to be changed. Microsoft’s Satya Nadella, for instance, transformed its management team from being “know-it-alls” to “learn-it-alls.”
2. Build Relationships
   Take time to get to know company directors and existing management and get their input before you begin to implement change. Unless you’ve risen through the ranks at the organization, you’re the new sheriff in town and there may be hidden pitfalls that were not obvious when you signed on.
3. Build a Team
   Assess the abilities and contributions of current executives. Identify up-and-comers who will share your vision and, when necessary, don’t hesitate to bring in new blood who will be loyal to you. Former Harvard Business School professor, John Quelch, however, has a word of warning that should be taken seriously.  “Always avoid, if possible, hiring your old cronies from previous companies before you’ve given the incumbents a fair chance to prove (or disprove) themselves.”
4. Set Clear Goals
   What is your vision? Where do you want to take the company? What’s going to be your differentiator? In their New York Times bestseller CEO Excellence: The Six Mindsets That Distinguish the Best Leaders from the Rest, senior partners at McKinsey write about reframing the very definition of success, and provide a great example. Imagine if Reed Hastings’ vision at Netflix had been ‘to be the number-one DVD company in America.’ Instead, he focused the company on becoming a ‘global entertainment distribution company that provides a unique channel for film producers and studios,’ making entertainment history as a result.”
5. Communicate Constantly
   Open and transparent communication on a regular basis is essential to win the hearts and minds of the workforce. Give them an idea of who you are as a person. Fully explain the rationale behind any changes you are going to make and their role in helping you implement them. Change makes everyone nervous and it’s up to you to rally them behind your plans. Communicate to everyone through emails and Zoom calls, hold in-person group and individual meetings with managers and senior executives when possible. And always stay consistent.

Moving Forward 

Stepping into the role of CEO is more than just a personal achievement—it’s an opportunity to shape the future of an organization. The journey begins with a clear understanding of the company culture, a commitment to building strong relationships, and assembling the right team to support your vision. Setting ambitious yet attainable goals and fostering open communication are essential steps to inspire trust and alignment across the organization. As you embark on this path, remember that leadership is not just about making bold decisions; it’s about earning the respect and confidence of those you lead. By following these principles, you can lay the foundation for sustained success and ensure your tenure is defined by growth, innovation, and meaningful impact.

Written by Jason Richmond.
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