On the one hand, CEOs are the most powerful people in their companies, but on the other hand they have the least amount of personal control. They are praised or cursed for every major action the company takes, and they are held responsible for virtually everything. This is because CEOs set rules for their employees to follow. Good rules allow good actions and bad rules can have negative consequences reaching into customer experience and the company's profits, argues the leadingeffectively.com website.
Here is a list of wicked CEOs that are no good for their companies, as it was created by the getvoip.com website:
The Gambler CEO
He is very optimistic (maybe too optimistic). He lives fast and is able to bluff his opponents. He doesn’t need research and analysis. He engages in wild gambles instead of calculated wagers.
The Hesitator CEO
Too much caution is sometimes even worse than risky behavior. When changes are needed, hesitation is rarely a good option. Competitors are quick to fill any potential gaps. Blackberry's CEO ignored the mobile revolution and didn’t capitalize on its already existing app.
The CEO Who Lets It All Hang Out
It is easy for top executives to forget when it is better not to say anything. Occasionally, it is better not to share all your ideas and opinions. AIG’s CEO defended enormous bonuses when times were bad, and to make it even worse, he compared criticism of huge salaries to white supremacist lynching. In other words, it was a PR disaster.
The Lone Ranger CEO
It doesn’t matter what stakeholders, employees or customers think about the strategy. J.C. Penny’s customers were alienated when the CEO decided to change the traditional brand based on his experience with Apple. A severe drop in revenues was the result.
The Tyrant CEO
Poor ethical standards and a sense of invincibility are the roots of what was the problem with CEO of the Chesapeake Energy Corps. He awarded himself some shady loans from the company’s budget and engaged in business that created massive conflicts of interest for him.
Let's try a little exercise: Could you name other CEOs who represent(ed) the above mentioned types?
-jk-