In this episode, we dive into why *C-Suite Alignment* is so damn important for your company’s success. When the leadership team is aligned, decisions are clearer, communication is more efficient, and teams operate with greater clarity and purpose. I’ll break down the key elements of *C-Suite Alignment* and share strategies that I’ve seen work firsthand in fast-growth companies. Misalignment at the top can create confusion throughout the entire organization, so getting on the same page is crucial for sustained growth. I’m Gene Hammett, an executive coach with over ten years of experience working with CEOs and their executive teams. After studying the leadership of fast-growth companies, I’ve developed frameworks and insights to help you and your company grow. Tune in to learn how to create strong *C-Suite Alignment* that will drive your business forward.

• Importance of Alignment: A lack of alignment in leadership creates distrust, communication breakdowns, and hinders optimal performance. Gene Hammett emphasizes that 80% of leadership teams are misaligned and unaware of the need to address it.
• Impact on Performance: Research from McKinsey shows that companies with aligned leadership teams are 2.3 times more likely to achieve better financial outcomes. Similarly, aligned teams are 58% more likely to successfully navigate significant changes, according to Gartner.
• Tough Conversations: Leaders often avoid difficult conversations, which weakens alignment. Hammett suggests confronting issues directly, building trust, and fostering open communication. If certain team members resist alignment efforts, they may need coaching or, in extreme cases, removal.
• Leadership Responsibility: Alignment is primarily the CEO’s responsibility, but other C-suite members must also contribute by addressing misalignments. Strong communication, trust-building, and direct conversations are essential tools in fostering alignment.

The Power of C-Suite Alignment and Tough Conversations

In this discussion, Gene Hammett emphasizes the often-overlooked importance of C-suite alignment. Drawing from his 12 years of experience as an executive coach, Hammett notes that many executive teams avoid tough but necessary conversations. C-suite alignment fosters trust, collaboration, and problem-solving, significantly increasing a company’s likelihood of achieving financial success. According to McKinsey & Company, aligned teams are 2.3 times more likely to meet financial performance goals. Hammett stresses that open communication is key to unlocking this potential.

Addressing Leadership Misalignment through Tough Conversations

Gene Hammett reveals that around 80% of leadership teams face alignment issues that often go unaddressed. He urges leaders to reflect on these gaps and consider the “missing conversations” that need to happen, either with individuals or across the C-suite. If trust has broken down, it’s crucial to confront these issues both one-on-one and as a team. Gene highlights the importance of honest, direct conversations to resolve challenges, and suggests that if internal solutions are difficult, seeking guidance from an objective coach can be instrumental in moving forward.

Leadership Alignment: Building Trust Through Tough Conversations

Gene Hammett emphasizes that trust within the executive team is crucial for alignment. As CEO, or any C-suite leader, it’s your responsibility to foster this alignment by engaging in honest conversations and addressing misalignment directly. Initially, this can be done empathetically, but if necessary, with increased directness. Leaders who resist growth must either be coached up or out. Hammett also advises that all C-suite members—not just the CEO—must take ownership of tough conversations to rebuild trust, ensure collaboration, and foster clear communication across the leadership team.

An Invitation to Improve Leadership Alignment

If you’re struggling with C-suite alignment, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected]. Whether it’s through a conversation, resources, or a call, I’m happy to support you. This is a genuine invitation—don’t let alignment issues fester because they won’t improve on their own. C-suite alignment is critical for navigating today’s challenges like AI and economic uncertainty. Get a coach if it’s not me, but don’t ignore the problem. When you think of growth and leadership, think of Growth Think Tank. Let’s tackle this together with courage.