How do you set product strategy when the CEO keeps changing their mind?
Model answer
Model answerConstant direction changes from the CEO usually mean one of three things: the strategy isn't written down and shared, there's genuine market uncertainty being processed in real time, or the CEO doesn't trust the current execution. My approach: get the strategy written and approved — a one-pager with the three bets we're making this year and what we're explicitly not doing. Once it's written, direction changes require updating the document. That friction is healthy.
Framework · Strategy Stabilization
- DDocument the strategy
Unwritten strategy changes invisibly. Written strategy requires explicit revision - AAlign on what you're NOT doing
The 'not doing' list is as important as the roadmap — it prevents scope creep - FFriction is healthy
Changing a written strategy requires a meeting — that friction prevents impulsive pivots - TDiagnose the root cause
Is this market uncertainty, trust deficit, or communication breakdown?
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