CEO agenda

By Harvard Business Review, May 2007 Wednesday, 11 July 2007

A surprisingly large number of executives lose their jobs following the arrival of a new CEO. To avoid becoming a victim, there are some basic strategies that can be deployed.

Further Reading

The new CEO has only a short period to show shareholders that they are succeeding, generally less than a year. Therefore, it is crucial that executives from the old regime drop any baggage they may have, such as gripes about their pay or difficulty getting along with certain colleagues, and focus on making a good impression, showing goodwill and helping the new CEO succeed.

It is also helpful to talk to the CEO to gain a sharper understanding of their agenda and working style.

In all their dealings with the new boss, executives should be honest, forthright, positive and hard working. Any slackers, such as one executive who went on holiday during his CEO's first month, court danger.

Finally, they need to be there to help the CEO consider different options, helping them to work through particular issues such as the budgetary options.

Surviving your new CEO
Kevin P Coyne
Edward J Coyne, Sr
Harvard Business Review, May 2007.

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