Business leadership is not a popularity contest; the best companies are run by enlightened dictators.

CEOs must listen very carefully to their employees but they have to do what is best for the company, employees, and shareholders. They have to make tough decisions and take responsibility when things go wrong. They expect that once the decision is made, everyone will comply - whether the decision was good or bad. The best leaders share the credit when they achieve success and take all the blame when things go wrong.

I'm reading a book called Twelve Against the Gods, by Bolitho. It's really quite good."

I know that dictatorship doesn't sound nice, but it is what business leadership entails. People love to follow strong leaders. They want to be led by people with vision, conviction and good values. They may not agree with everything the leader decides but as long as ethical lines are not being crossed, employees will follow directions, work hard and be loyal.

Look at some of the most successful business leaders: