A lot of leaders never take succession planning seriously because they feel like they either don’t need it or know where to start. Today, how to start with succession planning.


Guest: Bill Bliss
Bliss & Associates, Inc.
Author, Success In the C-Suite: Top Seven Strategies for Extraordinary Achievement


Bill last appeared on episode #118: What's The Difference Between Management and Leadership
Myths and stopping points of succession planning

The organization is only mine (I own it)
The organization is too small
I don’t know how to create a plan
In reality, a lot of people just don’t want to make the hard decisions.

Succession planning strategies and principles:
1. Development of leaders requires an investment of time and money

Look at where the company needs to be five years from now - that’s where the discussion starts
Then determine the competencies that will need to be ready at that time
“The number one role of any leader is to identify and prepare their successor.” -Bill Bliss

2. Successful leadership development is a multi-faceted approach

Bill mentioned the Center for Creative Leadership as a resource
Mentorship is valuable for some organizations, as is experiential leadership
Coaching is also very valuable for individuals

3. Backup succession plans are a necessity, not a luxury

Don’t place all your eggs in one basket

4. Legacy leaders must learn to completely let go

Develop interests outside of the organization if you are leading and plan to leave

5. Leaders willingly subordinate their own pride and ego for the sake of the success of the organization
Step one: where is the organization going to be 3-5 years from now?
“Begin with the end in mind.” -Stephen Covey
Practical Action

What action are you taking on your 3-5 year action plan?
Respond to that question on the show page and we'll enter you into a drawing to receive a free copy of Bill's book, plus feedback and encouragement from Bill and Dave.

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Check out Bill's book: Success In the C-Suite: Top Seven Strategies for Extraordinary Achievement
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