The McKinsey Podcast What sets the world’s best leaders apart
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Oct 9, 2025 Unlock the traits of the world's top CEOs as experts share insights from their research. Discover the four stages of leadership and how humility can enhance effectiveness. Learn how great leaders navigate human biases and engage their teams authentically. Explore the balance between bold vision and genuine teamwork. Gain practical tips on time management from industry leaders and understand the significance of culture in achieving success. Delve into the emotional challenges CEOs face and their role in crafting a compelling narrative.
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Four Stages Of CEO Leadership
- CEOs' journeys break into four distinct stages: prepare, start, sustain, and hand over the baton.
- Mastering each stage requires different mindsets and actions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Leaders Maintain A Learning Mindset
- Top CEOs display a persistent learning mindset and curiosity even after long success.
- They show humility and welcome feedback rather than only presenting answers.
Mastery Of Human Irrationality
- Exceptional CEOs understand the irrational sides of human nature and how involvement shapes judgment.
- They use that understanding to avoid biases like anchoring and to get disproportionate impact from engagement.
