The CEO test by Adam Bryant and Kevin Sharer is a comprehensive guide to not only becoming a CEO but also becoming a successful leader. The book is based on interviews with several successful CEOs and provides practical insights into what it takes to succeed as a CEO. In this article, we will delve deeper into the book, summarizing its main points and discussing its key takeaways.
Section 1: The CEO Genome
The first section of the book discusses what the authors refer to as the CEO Genome. According to the authors, the CEO Genome is a set of characteristics that successful CEOs possess. They argue that while not all successful CEOs possess every characteristic in the CEO Genome, they all possess many of them. The authors describe the CEO Genome as consisting of four key parts: the ability to make bold moves, the ability to excel at engaging others, the ability to adapt, and the ability to deliver results.
Section 2: The CEO Boot Camp
The second section of the book, The CEO Boot Camp, provides practical advice for aspiring CEOs. The authors discuss the importance of leadership, communication, and decision-making. They also provide tips for managing relationships, including how to communicate with your board of directors and how to manage your relationship with your mentor.
Section 3: The CEO Mindset
The third section of the book, The CEO Mindset, explores the mindset necessary for becoming a successful CEO. The authors argue that successful CEOs must have a growth mindset, which includes being open to new ideas and learning from failures. They also discuss the importance of optimism, perseverance, and humility.
Section 4: The CEO’s DNA
The final section of the book, The CEO DNA, provides readers with a roadmap for becoming a successful CEO. The authors argue that becoming a successful CEO requires not only possessing the CEO Genome but also developing a CEO DNA, which consists of a set of behaviours and habits that successful CEOs possess. These behaviours and habits include being disciplined, taking risks, being accountable, and being adaptable.
The CEO Test by Adam Bryant and Kevin Sharer is an essential read for anyone who aspires to become a successful CEO. The authors have distilled the characteristics, mindset, and habits of successful CEOs into a practical roadmap that can be followed by anyone willing to put in the effort. The book is filled with practical advice and insights from successful CEOs, making The CEO Test a valuable resource for anyone seeking to become a successful leader.