A common misperception about the CEO’s role is that they are the ultimate decision-maker, and that the prize of getting this coveted position is that you now get to make all the decisions. In reality, the CEO’s role is much more about shaping rather than making decisions.
The Myth of the CEO as Ultimate Decision Maker
Being in charge is about shaping decisions, not always making them.
September 13, 2023
Yaroslav Danylchenko/Stocksy
Summary.
Chief executives are responsible for guiding corporations, so the role inevitably requires making many decisions. But people overestimate the level of personal involvement CEOs have in this process. Instead of making decisions, CEOs tend to shape decisions, by designing the process, choosing when to participate directly, and monitoring the work — a selective process that mirrors the choices CEOs must make when carrying out other responsibilities.
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Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leading People. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What you need to know about being in charge.