Consumerism Commentary - Latest Comments in Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

Re: Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

telemill — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:13:19 -0000

For some prestige is the BEST motivator. I've met them -- they are frightening people.

Re: Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

Harlan Landes — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 19:55:20 -0000

I'd like to own an island and resort, like Richard Branson... is that a trophy? I know I'd enjoy it. It's not enough to foster a desire to be a Fortune 500 CEO, however. I'll be fine as a visitor.

Prestige is an interesting motivator. Is it enough? I guess it depends on your peer group. I'd like to see a survey.

Re: Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

KMC — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 10:04:29 -0000

Flexo, a study like you describe on CEO motivation sure would be interesting. I disagree with you though. I'd bet the primary motivator for CEOs is prestige.

I think the out-sized compensation packages aren't because these guys want lots of money. It's to compare themselves against their peers. They're not immune to the disease most Americans seem to have of comparing themselves to others.

After all, after several tens of millions of dollars, I'd think you'd start to run out of things to spend money on except 'trophies.'

Re: Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

Robin — Wed, 05 Sep 2007 01:05:56 -0000

Second born, private schooled, and female. Clearly I'll never get ahead.

I'm surprised that gender wasn't mentioned. It's probably the most common element of all: men, men, men.

Re: Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

Patrick — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 22:05:27 -0000

I think this is an interesting study. One thing it doesn't mention though is single children - are they included, and are they counted as first born?

I think a lot of first born children have a natural leadership ability because they took it upon themselves to do so from an early age.

Public vs. Private education: I think it all depends on the person doing the studying. Those who have the drive and skill to succeed will do so wherever they go to school. Private schools just tend to open some doors that public schools may not, or at least not as quickly.

This is definitely interesting. :)

Re: Who is More Likely to Become a CEO

Telemill — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 21:33:33 -0000

First-born and public university . . . I'm on my way!