Ask a CEO

Michael Hyatt, CEO of Michael Hyatt & Company, recently published “20 Questions to Ask Other Leaders.” In his piece, Hyatt contended that the best way to grow is through asking questions. As CEO of NX Direct, I accept the challenge! We too believe that knowledge is power, and that power should be shared. It is my hope that, like Michael Hyatt, I can inspire some leadership in you, and you in someone else.

How do you encourage creative thinking within your organization?

By giving my employees the freedom to work in their own ways, in their own styles, I have encouraged them to reach their goals in a creative and original way. Nothing great was ever born from a template, and instructions are helpful, but the freedom to stray from the lines is where the magic happens.

What is one characteristic that you believe every leader should possess?

Here at NX Direct, we have fostered an environment of comfortability among our employees, while also maintaining a professional and efficient work environment. An effective leader is not one who is feared or secretly disrespected, be available and approachable, while remaining firm. It is a balance that comes with experience and practice and often becomes the foundation of company culture.

What is the biggest challenge facing leaders today?

It is never easy to find the balance between micromanagement and absence, but the secret to strong leadership lies in the middle. Find where you feel most comfortable leading in this space, giving your employees the freedom to do their work, use their imaginations, foster confidence in their abilities, but remain focused and aware of what is happening under your nose. Stay updated, but loosen the reigns a bit.

What is one mistake you witness leaders making more frequently than others?

It is my belief that not truly knowing your company is detrimental. An all too common mistake of leaders and CEO’s is to get too caught up in their business at the top, dismissing the processes happening from the ground up. Learn the names of every associate, even your junior coordinators, and interns. Be aware of everything happening in your company each day. With time and experience you earn the ability to delegate, but not to ignore. Never assume, always be aware. Know your business, and know your company culture.

Leadership is an abstract subject, born from years of work experience and personal style. Here at NX Direct, this is how we do it. My sincere hope was not to teach you how to be a strong leader or an effective CEO, but to inspire you to mold your own form of leadership.