SGOs, TTs, FD,s

CEO Types: What are SGO’s, FD’s and TT’s?

... and What Really Matters

In 20+ years of working with clients, we at QMP have discovered that executives and business owners can be categorized into 8 types. Three of those types have what it takes to succeed at change, strategic improvements and corporate transformations — the other 5 don’t. So we won’t even mention them for the moment..

The difference in accomplishments and economic results between the two groups is remarkable. SGO’s, FD’s and TT’s succeed at a higher rate and faster - also by orders of magnitude greater than those in the other group. These are leaders who have the right stuff to lead, change and drive success. In fact, the combination of such a leader and some basic ingredients described in the book “What Really Works” can lead to economic results 15 times higher than those companies that neither have the leaders of the right types and the key four ingredients. Those four ingredients are 1) a clear and focused strategy, 2) a performance-based culture, 3) a fast-and-flat organization and 4) a culture the drives for flawless execution.

But back to the leader types — the point where all initiatives and culture change starts. Here are the successful types:

Sincerely Growth Oriented’s (SGO’s):

SGOs are in it for the long term. These are executives and owners that readily recognize they have issues and challenges. They can look at themselves objectively and honestly and they demonstrate a sincere and strong desire to constantly improve. An ideal type of business person, they understand performance excellence and are motivated by it. They thrive on achieving goals and are constantly improving basic business processes. They are the best-of-the-best executives; intellectually, emotionally and financially. They have what it takes to pro-actively initiate improvement programs and see them through to success and cultural adoption. They do not shy away from tough decisions, tough conversations and organizational change.

Frustrated Drivers (FD’s):

Frustrated Drivers can be very intense and quick in studying alternatives. Many times these are executives that inherited a family business or took over after a long oppressive or “old-fashioned” leader - perhaps a StuMP. (StuMP is an acronym for Stuck in the Mud Person, one of the other 8 types.)

FD’s have been waiting a long time for the opportunity to straighten things out. Their drive and motivation is high. They usually understand the weak points from long term involvement in the belly of the beast. They also recognize the resources and commitment needed to improve things and, upon decision, will drive for quick, visible results.

Establishing well-defined goals, benchmarks, checkpoints and progress measurements will help FDs satiate their sense of urgency. Good consultants communicate frequently, clearly and succinctly with these types. They emphasize speed, drive for quick traction and show results.

Terribly Troubled’s (TT’s):

TT’s really need help and are willing to invest in serious solutions. Their level of pain is high, as is their motivation to fix the problem. They may research alternatives, but will make decisions quickly, for in their minds there is no alternative to action. They are typically in a rush to get started and consequently may miss some alternatives - but they will move forward. Good consultants spend quality time with these prospects to ensure they understand what will be done (deliverables), what’s required for success (commitment) and how you will fix the problem (approach).

Why is it important to know which type you are?

Many executives and owners believe there is a short cut to success. There is luck, of course which is fate’s way of teasing us with short cuts. But, for the rest of us if we are not one of these types, don’t have on in our organization or can’t see ourselves evolving into one—let’s not delude ourselves thinking that a small personal investment of time, energy and sweat will lead us to success.

For more on the 8 types, go to out CEO InsghtPool™ and read The 8 Client Personality Types and How They Affect the Success and Longevity of a Consulting Engagement

Sound Strategy, Rapid Results, Lasting Impact™