Warren Buffett's 3 Secrets to Hiring Great Leaders: Integrity Above All

Warren Buffett's Timeless Leadership Advice: Three Secrets to Hiring Great Leaders In a 2001 speech at the University of Georgia, Warren Buffett offered his perspective on identifying exceptional leaders. His concise yet profound advice continues to resonate with business professionals today. Buffett highlighted three key qualities: intelligence, energy, and most importantly, integrity. "We look for three things when we hire people. We look for intelligence, we look for initiative or energy, and we look for integrity," Buffett stated. He emphasized the critical role of integrity, asserting that without it, intelligence and energy can be destructive forces within a company. Buffett's words highlight the enduring importance of character in leadership. His focus on integrity underscores the need for leaders who are not only capable but also ethical and trustworthy. His advice serves as a valuable reminder for businesses as they navigate the complexities of leadership selection in the modern era. This advice, originally shared over two decades ago, remains strikingly relevant in the context of the 2025 Fortune 500 list, reminding us that strong ethical foundations are essential for lasting success.