During my career I've had the pleasure of associating with a number of CEO's who have demonstrated track records of growing their companies over time surpassing industry averages, i.e. gaining profitable market share. Of course, it's not a revelation that they share common traits. They see "learning as a competitive advantage" and one of the common learning methods is through the utilization of advisers, consultants and coaches. Coaches in particular ask relevant questions and impart knowledge and, in the process, provide accountability and discipline.
These CEO's are always on the prowl for knowledge and willing to pay others to provide it. They are smart people getting smarter through a commitment to self and employee improvement. When presented with a new idea, they immediately look for the good versus finding fault. Their egos tend to be socialized as opposed to self centered; all innovations don't have to be their own. They are inherently curious and encourage others to speak out; they are quick to compliment.
The CEO of Starbucks was once asked to what did he attribute the companies success? His answer was essentially - "I hire people smarter than me and let them do their jobs"
Bill gates turned the Microsoft reins over to Bruce Balmer and also spends two full weeks per year behind closed doors reading, thinking and learning.
Tiger wood's use of coaches is celebrated. He has won for more often when working with Butch Harmon and Hank Haney than when going it alone.
Michael Dell employs a number of coaches. "Start with smart people and keep them smart" is a quote.
And from Verne Harnish, founder of Gazelles International and author of "Mastering the Rockefeller Habits - What you must do to increase the value of your growing firm"
LEARNING + COACHING = GROWTH
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Rick's Thoughts = "HMMMM!"
The decision to improve your chances of success through the use of coaching begins with the humility to recognize and acknowledge that you don't know everything. This is a lesson that is best learned well before one becomes a CEO. If we don't recognize that the people for whom we work in our formative years are actually mentors and coaches as well as bosses, we have little chance of becoming CEO in the first place, and even less chance of choosing to seek help if we do achieve that role!
The two smartest people I have ever met knew quite a few things, but more importantly, they knew where to look or who to ask to learn the things they didn't know.
A CEO is called upon to absorb vast amounts of information, process it all, and render decisions based on it. Without a coach, advisor, or peer with whom to share ideas and perspectives, the CEO is likely to stagnate over time. These outside influences can make sure that new perspectives enter the CEO's mind to keep decision making fresh.
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