Beyond Perfect CVs: The Nuances of Great Leadership Selection
- Marion Heil
- 26. Feb.
- 2 Min. Lesezeit
Aktualisiert: 12. Sept.
After a long time in executive search, I've come to value the nuances that separate a good hire from a great one. Here are some reflections from the day-to-day realities of leaders' selection.
Look Beyond Perfect Track Records
Perfect CVs and track records tell only part of the story. I've learned to look for leaders who can turn complex situations into opportunities. Their approach to challenges, their failures and what they've learned along the way often reveals more about their leadership potential than their achievements list.
The Power of Self-Awareness
Beyond skills and experience, there's something powerful about leaders who are genuinely self-aware. They tend to build stronger teams, drive meaningful change, and - crucially - engage with boards in a way that builds real trust and collaboration.
Beyond skills and experience, there's something powerful about leaders who are genuinely self-aware.
Culture Fit vs. Cultural Evolution
And something we've seen time and again: The strongest leaders aren't necessarily those who fit perfectly into your current culture. Rather, look for those who embrace your values deeply while bringing perspectives that help your organization evolve.
Understanding Long-Term Leadership Impact
In order to understand the leadership impact a leader has, talk to people who worked with your candidate several roles ago – not only the most recent references. The true impact of leadership often emerges over time - you'd be amazed at the insights that surface when you look at the long-term ripples someone has created in their wake.
Going Beyond the Standard Playbook
For boards mapping out their next CEO search: Consider going beyond the standard evaluation playbook. Yes, strategic alignment matters enormously. But equally important is how candidates think on their feet, how they've navigated uncertainty, and how they build bridges across different stakeholder groups. Sometimes the candidate who brings a fresh perspective - even if it feels a bit unexpected - might be exactly what your organization needs to thrive.
Sometimes the candidate who brings a fresh perspective - even if it feels a bit unexpected - might be exactly what your organization needs to thrive.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Marion Heil is the founder and managing director of Board+CEO Advisors. She is based in Vienna.
