Tapping the right individuals for leadership positions is an essential executive task. But often the wrong people are selected. That's because many hiring executives overvalue certain attributes (raw ambition, operational proficiency) while undervaluing others (ability to inspire, willingness to take risks).
To avoid these mistakes, understand the truth about those overvalued attributes. Take raw ambition: The most exceptional leaders don't exhibit strong ambition. They display modesty on the outside--while being fiercely competitive on the inside. And what about operational proficiency? Top leaders thrive in ill-defined, complex situations and see opportunity in confusion. By contrast, operationally proficient individuals rely on policies and procedures--and that can alienate others and stifle innovation.
To avoid these mistakes, understand the truth about those overvalued attributes. Take raw ambition: The most exceptional leaders don't exhibit strong ambition. They display modesty on the outside--while being fiercely competitive on the inside. And what about operational proficiency? Top leaders thrive in ill-defined, complex situations and see opportunity in confusion. By contrast, operationally proficient individuals rely on policies and procedures--and that can alienate others and stifle innovation.
This one definitely gave me a bit jolt. As an individual, I have always tried to put chaos in order before actioning. Now I am trying the other way round, and letting chaos prevail. It has surely been a very interesting week in terms of managing work, people and myself.
