The startup CEO is one of the key members of the startup team. A CEO himself could prove to be a good reason for the success or failure of the startup. However, this job can prove to be really stressful and challenging. This position comes along with a great responsibility. When so much is riding on this position alone, it becomes important to know what qualities are desired in a startup CEO. Here we list some qualities that a person must possess in order to be a successful CEO:

1. Trust:

Trust is a key quality that not only binds employees, investors , partners or company but also makes them feel secure. A startup CEO must be completely authentic and transparent with his dealings. Hence, it is very important for a CEO to be hugely trustworthy.

2. Keeper of vision:

Vision is critical to survival of the startup. This is what attracts investors and key employees. The vision may or may not be created by the CEO but he/she must make sure company actions are aligned to the vision. As a startup, one gets lots of offers and opportunities. The key is to seize the right offers and opportunities while passing the bad ones. A right opportunity is the one which is not only profitable but also aligned to the long term vision of the company.

3. Resilience:

Every startup whether big or small goes through lots of ups and downs. A startup may succeed or it may fail. If one goes by the statistics, more startups fails than succeed.  A startup CEO must have great resilience to bounce back from a defeat. He must learn from his/her mistake and start all over again with the same passion and enthusiasm.

4. Hire and retain smart people:

A startup CEO must have an eye to look through the hidden talent of various people. He must be able to hire exceptionally talented individuals. A startup CEO must always empower his/her team to do their job well. He must as well take good care of the needs of his employees.

5. Leadership:

A startup CEO must always possess the quality of leadership. He must be able to lead people. He should be passionate about his work and also encourage his team to do their job well. He must always set a good example for his employees. A company generally follows it’s CEO, therefore he must set for his team an ideal path to walk upon.

6. Motivator:

A startup CEO must be able to engage with his/her team members. It is important to motivate the team especially during crisis which, more often than not, is a norm in startup environment.

7. Communicator:

The skill of great communication is a must for any startup CEO. A startup CEO must be able to engage with his/her team members. It is important to motivate the team especially during crisis which, more often than not, is a norm in startup environment. He must as well should be a great listener.

8. Ethics and Values:

A startup CEO must have the resolve to stick to his ethics/values. This is necessary for the the success of the company.