In his book, Hit the Ground Running: A Manual for New Leaders, author Jason Jennings, identified nine of the nation's best performing CEO's from 2001-2007. These CEO's were at the helm of companies that included, the J.M. Smucker Company (the jam company), Humana, Inc., (health insurance) and Staples (office products). Tim and Richard Smucker, Co-CEO's of the J.M. Smucker Company outline their rules for achieving success in business:

1. Don't have secret strategies - make sure everyone knows the strategy and knows their role.

2. Have a culture that promises people a better tomorrow based on their good work.

3. Don't be content; you're responsible for making things better.

4. Doubt your own infallibility.

5. Have faith. Believe in a higher force.

6. Don't do what you know only for material rewards. Be called to your life's work and have a purpose.

7. Laugh and have a sense of humor.

   Whether you’re a leader with a title, or one without, or an aspiring leader, the above rules can guide you to success in the workplace.

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