Traits of eCommerce Executives
About 2 min read
Executive recruiters at Russell Reynolds Associates use a test to determine a job candidate’s ability to succeed as an eCommerce executive. They isolated six key traits for success.
Questions you may have include:
- What are these traits?
- Do I have them?
- How can I use them to hire the right people?
This lesson will answer those questions. There is a mini-quiz near the end of the lesson.
Six traits
The six traits of successful eCommerce CEOs are that they seize the moment, radiate vision, have a 80-20 mindset, get the right stuff done, improvise organization, and are learning obsessed.
Seizes the moment
The person has a trait of seizing the moment and acting quickly, often by using the latest models and tools to deliver value. Examples are forming partnerships, starting new enterprises, and recognizing opportunities.
Radiates vision
The person is enthusiastic and even evangelical about communication the company mission and vision to employees and customers. Effective communication is important. Often uses TQM methods to empower employees, such as letting them have a say in company decisions.
Has 80-20 mindset
The person examines company data, does more research and understands the risk to return ratio. It is knowing that 80% of the return comes from 20% of the business.
Gets the right stuff done
Such a person would keep from being distracted by tasks with little payoff. This is actually an extension of the 80-20 mindset. An example is making a long to-do list and prioritizing activities. It is focusing on what matters.
Improvises organization
The person builds and maintains a fluid organization that is responsive to customer needs and moves by the competition. Static org charts are out.
Is learning obsessed
The person remains constantly in the feedback loop and improvement obsessed. Examples are learning from employees, studying competing Web sites, and keeping up with the technologies.
Application
A first step in success is to know yourself–your strengths and weaknesses. You can examine this list and see how well you fit in those traits and management philosophies. You could also use the list to apply to prospective employees.
Obviously, this is just a simple analysis of the traits of success in eCommerce leadership. These traits may be something to emulate, but they are no guarantee of success. Also, in hiring others to help run your company, it is very difficult to determine what traits a person has.
At the very least, this list is food for thought.
Summary
There are work and personality traits of successful eCommerce leaders. One example is that they seize the moment, radiate vision, have a 80-20 mindset, get the right stuff done, improvise organization, and are learning obsessed. Such lists are food for thought in becoming a leader or hiring one.
Answers to Readers’ Questions
Lead by empowering others.
Resources
The following are resources on this subject.
Websites
The Industry Standard, February 14, 2000
Mini-quiz to check your understanding
Self-check your understanding
Why should an eCommerce leader have to seize the moment?
What is a good method of focusing on getting things done?
How can you keep up with learning?
Pick an answer to see instant feedback. Re-read the lesson if you miss one.
If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a Champion in eCommerce. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.
What do you think?
Do you have any questions, comments, or opinions on this subject? If so, send an email with your feedback. We will try to get back to you as soon as possible.