I’ve been offered the CEO job at a PE-backed, mature software company with 2% market share. The industry leaders control 75% of the market. I’ve never been a CEO before. Should I take it?
Do take the offer with both hands.This is your time. Your opportunity to shine.
Growth comes from doing things we have never done. Making an attempt to go places you have never gone. To explore.
I recommend you find a mentor, virtual or physical. A former CEO in your kind of industry for hands-on practical guidance.
Also, make time to read. Find great books like The New CEO’s first 90 days’, and such similar self-help books.
You could consider enrolling on evening MBA class nearby or an online one. With so many resources available today to leaders, no one should ever not try to explore new roles.
And most critical, when you take the role, hire the best people. Have a strong inner circle. Work with them to formulate a transformation organic strategy with clear choices to win in your market.
The advantage of joining a company with just 2% market share, it is like a mere citizen in a dictatorial government being arrested by rogue soldiers pointing his scared self loaded guns at him: the odds are against him or her. Any small move of valour and courage is seen to the spectators. As a CEO, any small progress will be visible. That is the kind of job to take and make an instant impact.
Don’t forget to share with me your first pay. Success in your new role. Go grab it before they change their mind.
I remain Mr Strategy.
