How do I know they are the leader? During the last quarter of 2007, they sold more than their closest competitor sold in all of 2007. And they treat their people right, enjoying a turnover rate of less than 10% when the average US turnover rate is 23.3%. (Source: U.S. Department of Labor.)

Additionally, just a few years ago, 80 people attended this 'Winners Circle' celebration; this year 800 elite producers were honored. How does a company maintain this leading edge year after year? Through brilliant leadership! It starts and stops with the CEO.

I had the opportunity to observe this CEO first hand with the following question in mind: "What magic does he employ in leading his team that his competitors seem to miss?" Here are the talents and traits this CEO exemplifies, resulting in a winning team year after year:

• Vision: His un-blurred vision of 'taking his company higher and higher' resonated through every person. I could see and feel it.
• Charisma: He communicated in a dynamic yet very personal manner that turned his people into followers, believers and pied pipers of his vision.
• Focus: When conversing with him one-on-one he was 100% with you, not glancing around the room for the next conversation, clearly focused on you and your story.
• Optimism: It would have been impossible to get a negative view on anything, including the economy or financial market from this determined leader.
• Drive: You could reach out and touch the energy that emanated from him into each of his highly motivated employees.
• Appreciation: He expects the world and more from his team. His message in every interaction: "Your mammoth efforts are noticed, appreciated and valued. You are my family."

I hear a lot of people discussing what's not working in their lives or businesses these days. How refreshing it was to spend a week with a leader and team who lives and focuses solely upon what is working and how to take it even higher.

I rank this particular CEO a '10' on each of the above characteristics. Perhaps this is the week to score yourself in these areas? How do you measure up to a leader who is clearly ahead of the game?

Next week, we'll take a look at what the dynamic individuals included in this 'Winners Circle' have in common. It may surprise you.

Enjoy your discoveries and have a grand week.

Ann

Want to see more of Ann?

Local readers can pick up the current issue of The Cascade Business News where Ann is featured in both the 'What Makes You Tick' column and also coaching section with her article: "Why Coaching Works: The Science". If you are not in Central Oregon, e-mail us and we'll send you copies.

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Copyright & Permission Copyright © 1998-2008 All rights reserved

Permission is granted to either reproduce copy or distribute "Your Success Thought for the Week for February 20, 2008" as long as this copyright notice and full information about contacting the author is attached. The author is Ann Golden Eglé, Golden Visions Success Coaching, LLC, 541.385.8887, PO Box 1696, Bend, Or. 97709. www.goldenvisionscoaching.com