What sets some executives apart? What enables some managers to reach the C-suite quicker than others?
Most C-suite execs have sharp minds and business acumen. They have a portfolio of leadership and soft skills, plus proven strategic and problem-solving capabilities. They have made bold career moves, met influential leaders who helped them along the way, and developed technical and conceptual skills related to their industries.
It isn’t unusual for CEOs and C-suite executives to have earned a Master of Business Administration degree in order to advance their careers. The Fitchburg State University MBA in Management online program is designed to develop the knowledge and capabilities typically found in C-suite executives.
A number of skill sets are critical to reaching the highest levels of corporate leadership.
Develop a Suite of Management Skills
C-suite executives tend to have broader business expertise than those lower in the corporate hierarchy. MBA courses provide significant exposure to all of the key functions of business, from finance and accounting to marketing, operations and supply chain logistics. Through case studies, C-suite execs apply proven methodologies to the art and science of problem-solving and managing difficult situations.
Improve Your Collaborative Capabilities
Problem-solving at every level of any organization is usually undertaken not by individuals flying solo but by teams of uniquely skilled individuals. MBA programs train professionals to lead in collaborative environments of diverse talents and backgrounds. Upon graduation, these professionals often collaborate with others as key contributors before rising into management and executive levels as team leaders. They become adept at identifying and focusing on what must be fixed.
As team leaders, they can drive a sense of unified purpose while enabling individuals to contribute their talents and take ownership of the outcome. The MBA program has given them the tools to perform with confidence in these situations.
Exude Leadership Values
Those who rise highest in organizations typically have skills associated with lasting influence and success. These values, conveyed through MBA programs, give them a robust confidence that inspires others to execute on their strategies. These capabilities include:
- Transparency and integrity. In an SHRM survey cited by Forbes, 94% of employees indicated that trust between employee and senior leaders was critical, while only 62% actually trusted their high-level leaders. Knowing that real leaders will be honest and transparent, even during down cycles and crises, creates credibility and accountability at every level of leadership.
- Eagerness to listen and learn. C-suite executives are not merely the leaders of the band. They are models to follow; they create the company’s atmosphere and its culture. By being approachable and willing to share ideas rather than dictating, they enable individuals throughout the organization to develop strong working relationships and to trust in their leaders at every level.
The world’s most successful depend on MBA graduates to fill leadership positions throughout their organizations, and to be candidates for increasing responsibility. Now you know some of the reasons why.
Learn more about Fitchburg State University’s online MBA in Management program.
Sources:
CFI: What Are Management Skills?
CNBC: 10-Year Study Finds That This Is the Fastest Way to Become a CEO
