The job description as the 2W Tech CEO used to be simple: All of the above and duties as assigned.
For a while, that meant me taking control and running the show. But I’m realizing that the same approach that worked in the past could actually hurt us now.
Being CEO might mean you’re the most passionate, invested, caffeinated individual on the team, but it doesn’t make you the end-all be-all. I’ve learned this. I am learning this.
Recently, I’ve been reinventing my role, transitioning from a more hands-on to a vision-focused guiding role. (Is Chief Vision Officer a thing?)
In the early days, I was the puppet master. I called the shots; I stepped in to solve problems and had my hands in pretty much every department and knew every client. I loved it.
Now, with the 2W growth mode amped up to 11, I can’t do it all. I need to shift from being the quarterback on the field to being the coach on the sidelines and, on occasion, the General Manager up in the booth. While I’m still there to cheer the team on (and occasionally, sprint to catch the odd fumble),I now have to step back and trust others to take the lead.
It’s not easy taking a step back, and I know it’s essential to achieve the growth we’re capable of, but old habits die hard. I catch myself hovering, offering “helpful” nudges while muttering, “You’ve got this, right?”
Thankfully, I’m backed by an incredible executive team and a dynamite crop of newly minted front-line managers. All of them leaders who are more than capable. Their confidence and expertise allow me to focus on the bigger picture, knowing that the day-to-day operations are in great hands.
The truth is, I’m still figuring out where I fit in our new reality.Which, ironically, I created.
Some days, I nail the visionary vibe, casting a bold future and inspiring the team. Other days, I’m knee-deep in the weeds, wondering if I’ve delegated too much or not enough. It’s a balancing act with no instruction manual, but that’s part of the fun. The company’s evolving, my role’s evolving, and I’m evolving right along with it.
Despite all the hiccups, it’s paying off. The team’s taking ownership, the company’s hitting new milestones, and I’m finding my footing in my new gig (CVO anyone?) coffee mug and optimism in hand.