8 Tips for Managing an Eclectic CEO
Practical advice for product managers working with visionary and unpredictable CEOs
Ever worked with a CEO who thinks every idea is the next big thing? Welcome to the club. Managing an eclectic CEO can feel like riding a rollercoaster designed by Picasso. But fear not, it's not only survivable, it can be an exhilarating journey with the right approach.
1. Embrace the Chaos
First things first, get comfortable with the unpredictable. Eclectic CEOs thrive on creativity and spontaneity. Instead of trying to tame the chaos, learn to ride the waves. Flexibility is your friend.
2. Clear Prioritization
When your CEO has a new "game-changing" idea every week, you need a robust prioritization framework. Use tools like Eververse to keep track of what's truly important. Align these priorities with your product roadmap and make sure your team knows what's urgent and what's noise.
3. Communicate Transparently
An eclectic CEO often has a vision that's not immediately clear to everyone else. Regular, transparent communication helps bridge this gap. Share the rationale behind decisions and how they align with the overall strategy. Use visual aids and storytelling to convey complex ideas effectively.
4. Leverage AI for Insight
AI can be your secret weapon. Utilize AI tools to analyze market trends, customer feedback, and product performance. Presenting data-driven insights can ground even the most whimsical ideas in reality, making it easier to decide which ones to pursue.
5. Foster a Feedback Culture
Create an environment where feedback flows freely. Encourage your team to voice their thoughts and concerns about new ideas. Constructive criticism can refine those wild ideas into actionable plans. Plus, it shows your CEO that you're committed to excellence, not just execution.
6. Manage the Roadmap Dynamically
With a visionary CEO, your product roadmap needs to be as dynamic as their ideas. Regularly update and adjust your roadmap to reflect new priorities. Tools like Eververse can help you maintain a living document that evolves with your CEO's vision.
7. Align with Engineering Early
Engineering teams often bear the brunt of sudden strategic shifts. Get them involved early in the decision-making process. Their insights into feasibility and timelines are crucial for realistic planning. This also ensures they're prepared for any pivot.
8. Protect Your Team's Focus
Finally, guard your team's focus like a hawk. An eclectic CEO can inadvertently pull your team in too many directions. Use timeboxing and clear milestones to keep the team on track. Ensure they have the bandwidth to deliver on the most critical tasks without burning out.
Managing an eclectic CEO is an art form. It's about balancing vision with reality, spontaneity with structure, and creativity with execution. With these tips, you can turn what seems like chaos into a symphony of innovation. Ready to embrace the ride?
