What qualifications are needed for a good successor?

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As Sam Walton once stated, “Outstanding leaders go out of the way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing what they can accomplish.”
The following leadership qualities are a must when considering future executives:


  • Ability to see the big picture. You want leaders who can see how all the pieces fit together…and how decisions made today will impact the company in the long run.
  • An understanding of the roles of innovation and risk taking. Good leaders aren’t afraid to bring in new ideas or think outside of the box. They aren’t limited by their own understandings, but have a tremendous ability to ask the questions that get everyone thinking.
  • An execution mindset. In other words, competent leaders are focused on results.
  • Ability to work efficiently. Excellent time-management skills are a must when leading an organization.
  • Ability to motivate others. Successful leaders understand the importance of teamwork and motivation. Without a motivated group of employees behind them, it’s awfully lonely at the top.
  • Ability to keep a customer focus. In other words, good executives remember who they’re ultimately working for.
  • A caring attitude about the company and what they’re doing as an organization. Successful leaders know it’s not just a job. They are emotionally involved in the well-being of the company.
  • Trustworthy. We’ve all seen what happens when the integrity of a company’s leader is questioned. Successful executives are beyond reproach, and the employees and consumers know it.



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