When a CEO hangs on to authority but shows up inconsistently, the result is organizational whiplash: priorities shift, decisions get undone, and trust erodes. As a leader, you can’t control their disruptive presence, but you can stabilize what’s around you. Here’s how.
Start with curiosity, not judgment. When the CEO’s behavior feels erratic, don’t jump to conclusions. Avoid reacting to the story you’re telling yourself. Instead, stick to observable facts and ask questions that surface intent. You’ll lower defensiveness and uncover what’s really driving their actions.
Make the business impact visible. CEOs often don’t realize how their unpredictability stalls momentum. Walk them through the downstream effects, like delays, confusion, and disengagement. Be specific. Frame your input around outcomes, not blame. One calm conversation can create an opening for better norms.
Build alignment. Clarify who owns which decisions, how updates flow, what checkpoints the CEO can reliably be a part of, and who will communicate with them to ensure consistent messaging. These agreements will reduce redundant work and strengthen execution.
Be the steady one. Even when the CEO veers off-plan, your job is to minimize the ripple effects. Align with peers, protect key priorities, and model clarity. Your steadiness becomes the signal others follow. |
