How do most people become CEOs? I see these guys all the time on the business shows.

Question

Some people work hard for years with a company and hardly advance. Is it luck, right place right time? What do the CEOs themselves say?

Answer 1

Company politics and a PHD or Masters helps.  For most of the people at that level, it helps to be willing to step on people on the way up.  I had a hard time surviving at corporate because I wasn't cut throat, didn't play golf, wouldn't lie to the people below me, didn't promise what I couldn't deliver and was always honest in my dealing with my peers, lower management and hourly personnel.  

I've worked with a few VP's and CEO's that were people persons and were very nice to work with, but, the majority were not to be trusted.  You'd be amazed the devious dealings that I've observed in upper management.

Based on over 30 years in corporate management

Answer 2

In quite a few cases they had some project or assignment that profited the company greatly.  This brought them to the attention of the current business leaders.  Then they were able to develop those relationships until one day they took over.

Some become CEO's of smaller companies grow them garner some press and get offers to jump to larger companies.

Keep in mind working hard and advancing do not go hand in hand all the time.  A production worker may work their butt off everyday but without an opportunity to show they can do more they are stuck and it can be the same for any mid-level manager.