Ben Renshaw’s bestselling book How to Be a CEO distills years of research and coaching into a practical roadmap for leadership. At its heart lies the 3P Framework — a simple yet profound model that defines what great CEOs (and aspiring leaders) must focus on: Purpose, People, Performance.
1️⃣ Purpose
Definition: Purpose is the why behind leadership. It’s about clarity of vision and values.
Why it matters: Without purpose, decisions become reactive. With purpose, leaders inspire alignment and resilience.
Application for early careers: Students and young professionals can start by asking: What impact do I want to make? Purpose-driven choices compound into long-term success.
2️⃣ People
Definition: Leadership is about people, not positions. CEOs succeed by empowering others.
Why it matters: Trust, collaboration, and empathy are the foundation of sustainable leadership.
Application for early careers: Building strong networks, listening actively, and valuing diverse perspectives are skills that accelerate growth.
3️⃣ Performance
Definition: Performance is about delivering results consistently and ethically.
Why it matters: A CEO’s credibility rests on outcomes. Performance is the bridge between vision and reality.
Application for early careers: Focus on measurable achievements, whether in academics, projects, or internships. Results build reputation.
Why the 3Ps Matter Beyond CEOs
The beauty of the 3P framework is that it’s not limited to the boardroom. Whether you’re a student, an entrepreneur, or an early-career professional, the 3Ps provide a compass:
Purpose keeps you grounded.
People keep you connected.
Performance keeps you moving forward.
Key Takeaway
Reading books like How to Be a CEO is like compressing decades of leadership wisdom into days. The 3P framework is more than theory — it’s a practical guide to becoming not just a leader of tasks, but a leader of transformation.
📌 If you’re starting your career, ask yourself today:
What’s my purpose?
How am I investing in people?
Where am I proving my performance?