Startup CEOs have an obvious imperative to guide their fledgling companies to growth and prosperity. Unfortunately, many businesses don't succeed in the early stages, putting them out of the running before they've begun to blossom. While Forbes recently identified many reasons why this could be, one traces back to the head office: an ineffective leader, or, as the source puts it, "founder dysfunction."
Contributor Eric Wagner says that startup founders are often likely to overstretch themselves and make "poor decisions" when their companies are starting out. These executives can unconsciously be their own worst enemy because they give in to their worst qualities, whatever those may be. At their core, some CEOs may simply not have what it takes to support a brand-new enterprise.
Wagner advises CEOs to take responsibility for their shortcomings and work to improve themselves. Doing this is not just good for them personally, he says, but sends a strong message to partners and competitors alike.
"I have never once met an angel or venture capital investor who doesn't investigate the character of a founder and his/her team before whipping out their checkbook," he writes. "It still amazes me how many business owners who actually have good ideas with the ability to execute them — crash and burn because of their own dysfunction."
To counter this, executives must be self-aware and honest about their weaknesses. Leaders who seek feedback and input from others also have an advantage in self-improvement and thereby in stabilizing and growing their business.
If your startup is seeking a new executive, a management recruitment team can help your company find a professional who is fit for the top position.
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