Being CEO Is a Communications Job

Most CEOs underestimate how much of their success depends on clear, consistent communication.

The CEO role at scale is fundamentally a communications job.

This runs counter to popular conceptions of the chief executive. Aren’t they supposed to be the ultimate executors, people who do instead of talk? But once a company grows to a certain size, the CEO does very little direct operational work in the business. (And if they try to, they won’t be able to function as CEO for long.)

Instead, the professional CEO’s success hinges on their ability to communicate in a way that keeps the team aligned and executing. This is the role in which they offer the most distinctive value.

I’m talking about the things that great CEOs live and breathe:

• Articulating a vivid vision that inspires the team

• Reinforcing the differentiating values that define company culture

• Explaining the strategic intent that must guide employee decision making

• Discussing the company’s core objectives and measurements

• Offering s…