Book of Answers for a Young CEO

Book excerpt: "When asked about the qualities needed to be an effective CEO, the answers are, to me, quite basic: Respect for, and ability to get along with, many different kinds of people, including those that do not share your views; The will to honor promises that one makes to his family, and the understanding that work and home life must be balanced." -Gerard J. Arpey, CEO, American Airlines "Be positive about challenges you encounter, for no matter how successful you are, you will encounter them." -William Clay Ford, Chairman, and CEO, Ford Motor Company "In the real world, leaders are rarely faced with a simple choice between right and wrong. Leaders can't avoid ambiguity, but must learn to be decisive in spite of it." -Sy Sternberg, CEO, New York Life "I think anyone willing to work hard for their goals, learn from their mistakes, and care about others has the "markings" to become a wonderful Leader." -Gary Kelly, CEO, Southwest Airlines "Find the right people and the right information to help you get the job done." -Ronald A. Williams, CEO, Aetna "Understand opportunities don't come in an envelope labeled "opportunities"; create value; be honest; have a vision; work hard." -Edward Zore, CEO, Northwestern Mutual "Success requires envisioning, embracing and driving change. The only way to turn potential into higher levels of achievements is to continuously change." -Susan M. Ivey, CEO, Reynolds American "Surround yourself with people smarter than you: People make it happen and great people are necessary to make any idea come alive." -Maggie Wilderotter, CEO, Frontier Communications "I believe hard work, dedication, and the willingness to take calculated risks, not only in my personal life, but in my career as well, have contributed to my success. Have a passion for whatever you do." -Robert A. Reynolds, CEO, Graybar Electric