The X Factor in Leadership, with Bill McDermott, Host of ProfitSense
In this commentary from a recent episode of ProfitSense, Bill shares the story of a CEO he considers to have the X factor in leadership.
Bill’s commentary was taken from this episode of ProfitSense.
ProfitSense with Bill McDermott is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton Studio of Business RadioX® in Alpharetta.
Transcript
Bill McDermott: I want to talk a minute about the X factor in leadership. In Jim Collins’s book, Good to Great, he calls the X factor of great leadership a paradoxical blend of extreme personal humility and professional will.
I had lunch recently with someone I would consider as having the X factor of leadership. He took on a CEO position about six years ago. He had inherited an old school management philosophy with little resources invested in the professional development, business development, and collaboration of his team members.
He’s somewhat quiet and reserved, but very ambitious in his time as CEO. Thus far, he’s contributed significantly to the business and professional development of his coworkers. He’s changed the culture to one of collaboration, not only with coworkers, but clients as well. His energy is focused hourly. To create an organization of thriving coworkers determined to make their organization the best it can be and invest their time volunteering in the communities they serve.
Here are some key characteristics of top leaders, according to Collins:
- Personal humility. These leaders are modest and unassuming and don’t seek out the limelight or public recognition. They’re focused on building and sustaining a great organization.
- Professional will. These leaders have a fierce determination to succeed. They’re willing to do whatever it takes to make their companies great. Even if it means making tough decisions or sacrificing their own personal interests.
- Ambition for the cause. These leaders are motivated by a larger purpose than their own personal success. They’re passionate about their work and want to make a difference in the world. With these leaders, their ambition is first for the cause for the organization and its purpose, not themselves. Their energy is channeled outward, not inward.
If you want to be a great leader, these are some good places to start.
