In reality, there is little that an executive, no matter how charismatic, can do alone to affect business results.
Leadership is, by definition, doing things through the efforts of others.
Witness the fates of ITT Industries Inc. after Harold Geneen, the Polaroid Corporation after Edwin H. Land, or Apple Computer Inc. between Steven P. Jobs's terms. The worldwide study suggests that successful companies share several characteristics. Although alignment and adaptability are difficult to achieve simultaneously, they are not mutually exclusive. The key is to achieve the right balance. One way is to align around adaptability by measuring and rewarding agility, responsiveness, and risk-taking.