I recently came across this book called Leadership Secrets of the World's most successful CEOs. It is a compilation of experiences from different CEOs. While each CEO clearly stated their top strategy with an explanation of how that was used, the following is a summary as shared in the book.

I felt it is appropriate to share this on this blog.

1. Have a clear vision, a specific direction, and a goal for your organization

2. Focus on the two or three things most important to your vision and goals. Don't spread the attention too thin

3. Communicate your vision, strategy, goals and mission to everyone involved - senior management, employees, suppliers, vendors, customers, stakeholders, and other stakeholders

4. Listen to what others tell you. Be willing to accept and act upon criticism and suggestions.

5. Surround yourself with the right people, a strong team.

6. Treat your employees exceedingly well. Help them become successful in their careers and their lives

7. Apply the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have others do unto you

8. Be in a business you love and are passionate about

9. Constantly innovate to gain and sustain competitive advantage and serve your customers better

10. Plan everything. Leave nothing to chance

11. Be a leader and actually lead. Take responsibility. Make tough decisions.

12. Lead by example. Don't expect your people to do what you won't or don't do yourself

13. Listen to the people who are closest to the customers and the marketplace. They will give you your best advice and input

14. Set performance goals and establish metrics by which you can measure your performance and results

15. Be service-oriented. How can you make the lives of your employees and customers better, easier, and more rewarding?