According to the renowned management expert Peter Drucker, effective executives don’t need to embody the stereotypical traits of charisma or a larger-than-life personality. In fact, some of the most successful leaders, like U.S. President Harry Truman, lacked these qualities yet were among the most effective executives in history. Throughout his 65-year consulting career, Drucker worked with numerous successful business and nonprofit CEOs who didn’t fit the typical leadership mold. They came in all types, from extroverted to reclusive, from generous to frugal. Despite their differences in personality, he found that these leaders shared certain practices, which made them effective leaders and helped them achieve success.
Based on Drucker’s research, here are the 8 key practices that these successful executives consistently applied:
1. They Asked, “What Needs to Be Done?”
Effective executives focus on identifying what is truly important for the organisation. They don’t get bogged down by tasks that are secondary or irrelevant. Instead, they always begin by clarifying what needs to be done to drive the organisation forward.
2. They Asked, “What Is Right for the Organisation?”
The most successful executives are always thinking about the bigger picture. They make decisions based on what is best for the organisation as a whole, rather than what benefits them personally or in the short term.
3. They Developed Action Plans
Knowing what needs to be done and what’s best for the organisation is only the beginning. Effective executives don’t stop at identifying goals—they follow through with actionable, concrete plans that outline how to achieve those goals.
4. They Took Responsibility for Decisions
True executives stand by their decisions. They take full responsibility for the choices they make and ensure they are accountable for the outcomes. They don’t shy away from difficult decisions but rather take ownership and lead by example.
5. They Took Responsibility for Communicating
Effective communication is a cornerstone of success. These executives ensure that information flows clearly within the organisation, and they are proactive about keeping everyone informed and aligned. This promotes collaboration and ensures that all members of the team are on the same page.
6. They Focused on Opportunities, Not Problems
Instead of being fixated on problems, successful executives focus on the opportunities available. They take a forward-thinking approach, identifying potential areas for growth and improvement, and focus their energy on making the most of these opportunities.
7. They Ran Productive Meetings
Meetings are a necessary part of running any organisation, but they need to be productive. Effective executives know how to run meetings that are focused, efficient, and result in clear outcomes. They make sure that time is well spent and that meetings drive action.
8. They Thought and Said “We” Rather Than “I”
Finally, successful executives emphasise collaboration and teamwork. They think and speak in terms of “we” rather than “I,” promoting a sense of collective responsibility and unity within the organisation. This mindset helps ensure the entire team feels accountable and motivated to achieve shared goals.
The Key Takeaway
If you want to become a more effective executive, focus on implementing these eight practices into your leadership approach. The results will speak for themselves.
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