Doubt a useful tool: CEO Report

The world's top CEOs say embracing "doubt" is an important strength in modern management. Photo / Thinkstock

Survey finds uncertainty can be constructive.

If you're racked with uncertainty about your next corporate move, don't beat yourself up. The world's top CEOs say embracing "doubt" is an important strength in modern management.

The CEO Report released yesterday by executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles and Said Business School at the University of Oxford surveyed more than 150 chief executives from around the world, and found that 71 per cent said they sometimes doubted themselves. Despite this, the majority of those viewed this uncertainty as a tool, comparing the power of doubt to athlete's nerves as a source of focus and insight when used constructively.

"If you don't doubt yourself in a constructive, positive way, you are borderline dangerous for your company," one chief executive said.

The report found that the success of executives was increasingly based on their ability to adapt in a constantly changing environment.

Heidrick & Struggles' Tracy Wolstencroft said leaders who were able to survive in the uncertain climate often had an advantage.

"Senior business leaders must operate in a new normal of unpredictable change in a hyper-connected world.

"Volatile business climates can provide a competitive advantage for those who are able to lead and inspire their teams through this uncertainty."

Of those surveyed, 75 per cent said they felt the role had changed. One of the main findings of the report was the need for ripple intelligence - the ability of chief executives to be able to anticipate changes and disruptions.

"In an ambiguous, rapidly changing environment, if you haven't got your antennae out ... you're going to struggle to see opportunities and threats which may blindside you," commented a chief executive.

Being an authentic leader was also considered a key point in being a successful leader, with a demand for being adaptable while also retaining a personal focus and sense of purpose.

CEO survey

• 75% of those surveyed said the role of a CEO had changed.
• 71% of those surveyed said they had doubts about their leadership.
• 64% cited people decisions as the toughest to make.
• More than 150 CEOs were surveyed.