When we speak of a CEO or leader of a company, we probably imagine someone who has stereotyped characteristics, has years of experience, is confident, is an extrovert, can sell himself and is willing to take risks. But are these traits naturally characteristic of every company leader or has anyone been able to develop techniques and traits that will set them apart from other executives? Here are the 5 most common characteristics of a successful CEO and how they can be applied to drive personal and business growth.

1. Learn dexterity
   Learning from past experiences can mean a lot in life and business and aspiring CEOs who have this feature will know how to apply this experience to help them overcome challenges and achieve goals. A CEO who is able to do this will continue to learn as they progress in their role and discover how fresh ideas can solve new problems and unexpected obstacles.
2. Optimistic view
   A CEO is constantly under pressure to deliver and must also remain optimistic under pressure. Positions at the top can be challenging, but an optimistic approach can help a CEO to face challenges head on, maintain morale throughout their business and ensure productivity levels stay high. Optimism also fosters self-confidence and can help leaders pursue goals that others see as impossible dreams, break down barriers and find ways to compete that others haven’t thought of.
   
3. Be the host, not the hero
   When it comes to leadership at the top of an organization or company, there can be a temptation to take a heroic approach to getting things done. However, while some CEOs may believe they work harder or more than anyone else in the company or organization, this is unlikely to inspire their workforce. Smart CEOs, on the other hand, realize that it’s being the host and not the hero that gets the best results. By bringing people together, engaging them in challenges or issues and empowering them to achieve results, it leverages the best potential of the workforce.
   
4. Have Empathy
   Empathy is not a trait that is only used temporarily in certain conditions, but must be made a top priority. No matter how competent you are as a CEO, caring for your workforce will carry you and your business forward a long way. From taking responsibility for failures to championing reward and incentive programs, there are many ways CEOs can demonstrate empathy that will lead to a happier and more productive workforce.
   
5. Be a good listener
   Just because the CEO is often responsible for making the final decisions doesn’t mean that the opinions of others should be put aside. A willingness to listen, encourage feedback and seek solutions to problems can truly help a CEO understand the diverse skillsets and spans of experience across their workforce, and get the best out of teams and individuals. This can make a big difference to productivity.

Conclusion
Basically, leadership traits can be formed and trained on an ongoing basis, because it’s not just an innate trait that can lead an organization.

Now that you understand the characteristics of a CEO, are you interested in becoming a CEO? Also read other articles about Start-ups, business, innovation, and technology on the Ideanation website www.ideanation.id.