Question
I'm a 1st time startup co founder and CEO. My partner joined after falling in love with the idea, but since then, decision making became much more complicated, and I feel like the product gets pulled in too many opposing directions. When I do insist on my vision, we execute together beautifully. We did agree that I'll be the CEO, but it seems he has trouble settling for it. Any advice?
Answer
The worst split at the top is 50/50 because it is asking for gridlock. Someone has to have the final say and that is the CEO. One of the jobs of CEO is to evangelize about the vision. If that is not quite happening, check the evangeilzing methods, check the present vision (it may be a tad off).
I have been in many businesses, including the 50/50 and now as Business Executive Coach help point a big flashlight on future success, the alternatives, the evangelizing and self checking needed etc. Not for the faint of heart, but hey, that is why you are the CEO. :-)
