How to Lead a Company

Leading a company--especially a large, public one--is one of the world's most stressful, demanding and challenging jobs. With more competition than there used to be, these jobs are often taken following an immense round of competition. To get to the top, and stay there, follow these steps to gain the necessary qualities.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Take a sound, ethical stance. A company led by a person with questionable ethics makes the entire institution unstable. From investors to employees, and even potential employees, people want to associate with a company they can trust.
2. Be able to face difficult decisions. Part of being a leader includes taking the heat, and making decisions that aren't always fun or favorable.
3. Handle enemies. At this high level of competition, personally and between businesses, not everyone is a friend. If you are the type of person who needs to be liked by everyone, you will be sadly disappointed.
4. Find clarity and focus when making big decisions. Companies are complex entities with many factors at stake. When it comes to big decisions involving many facets, dig through the details to find the heart of the problem, issue or decision at hand. Focus on this direct issue in relation to the big picture as you make your decision.
5. Communicate directly and effectively. With many different audiences and stakeholders to report to, company leaders must respond well to questions on the spot, and be ready to speak convincingly and persuasively to co-workers, subordinates, other leaders, investors and the media.
6. Be able to judge people, read people and train people. Investment in human capital is essential.
7. Lead by encouraging others' professional development. Showing that you care about the growth and interests of your employees creates an environment in which people will want to stay.
8. Have self-confidence. Confidence in your abilities as a leader is key. When you know your strengths and use them to your advantage, you also respect and invest in the fact that there are others who are smarter, more talented and more capable than you. Surround yourself with the best and brightest.
9. Be flexible. Business is full of change. The unexpected can occur at any moment, causing priorities, schedules and goals to shift. The best leader will adapt to these changes with ease, leading with stability and focus.

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