5 things every new CEO should do/not do

I've recruited too many CEO's to count now. There are some clear do's and do not's as one joins a company. Here are 5, to start:

1. Show some humility. Don't show any arrogance and you don't need to posture. You've been annointed CEO for a reason. Look the part. Be statesman like and balanced. Listen carefully. Get the lay of the land. The team will respect you more for this approach and you will need their support, even if you think they all need to go, to get the rank and file comfortable and keep them focused.

2. Engage Founders and/or the technical team early and often. Without them, there is no company and no edge.

3. Talk to customers, as many as possible. Get on the road and show the team you're willing to put your back into the work.

4. Don't "ready fire aim" with people. Give them a chance. Evaluate them on their own merit after understanding their situation and atmosphere, challenges, etc. Don't take anything for granted or at face value.

5. Give the Board regular updates. They're nervous about the hire, though they might not show it. Every hire has risk, particularly CEO hires. Get them comfortable. AND BE PREPARED FOR YOUR FIRST BOARD MEETING. First impressions are key.