18Not Just for CEOs: Dealing with Founders and Boards
Whether you're a CEO, you aspire to be one, or you don't see yourself in that role, you can still develop ways to think like an effective leader. Non-founder CEOs often want and need to change an organization's culture to realize their mission and goals. At the department level, new managers can run into similar challenges when they want to establish new ways of doing things. This can generate resistance among employees, so it's best to tread lightly at first and be respectful of your predecessor. As a leader, you will also need to manage your relationship with your board of directors, whether they are a formal part of your organization's structure or your personal board of advisors.
The following activities will help you navigate your relationships with the people who came before you and board.
UNPACK THE FOUNDER MYTHOLOGY
Begin by clarifying your vision for the next stage of your company or department. What is your role? What are the biggest untapped opportunities? What will be the biggest challenges?
Do some research into your organization's founder or your predecessor. What is the true or not-so-true mythology surrounding their success? What is their role in the story of the company? What did people value about them?
What is the more realistic version of your founder or predecessor's story? Include any weaknesses or limitations that you have identified.
How has this ...
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