In this interview, the former CEO of a company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, Medtronic, gives his views on leadership, the mistakes that leaders make, and why 360 Degree Feedback is so critical to the promotion process.
These include:
- Not listening to what other people are telling you: "I think the idea of 360 degree feedback, where you get feedback from your subordinates and your peers, is the most valuable thing you can do".
- Thinking and reflecting on the feedback you get: "You need to ask, "What did I do well? What didn't I do? What turned me on? What didn't I like?" These are important questions".
- Spot 'imposters' - people who make a great impression but who weren't pulling their weight behind the scenes, in which case go "back to the 360 degree feedback...I made it policy when I was at Medtronic never to promote anyone unless I had feedback on how that person acted as a leader and how they treated other people".