Leadership in the Inner Circle

Every organization has an inner circle - an exclusive group of executives whom the CEO consults for decision making.

The CEO - It is imperative that members of the inner circle feel comfortable and free to share their views, even dissenting views. For this to happen, the CEO needs to cultivate an atmosphere of freedom (of expression) and acceptance (of differing views).

Present the issue(s) for consideration. Do not share your opinion before the rest do because if you do, they may feel constrained to agree with you.
Be open to consider alternative views and do not take things personally when members disagree with you.
If any member's suggestion is good then acknowledge, accept and act on it. Your action will demonstrate that members' views are valued and will create in them a desire to continue to share openly and freely with you.

Members of the Inner Circle

Within the circle - What if you feel strongly against the CEO's decision?

Pray about the entire situation and examine your own attitudes and motives.

Why do you object to the CEO's decision? What are the possible consequences of his decision?
Present your views to the CEO clearly, calmly and with conviction.

If in the past, you had demonstrated your support and loyalty then do not be afraid to speak up. Being loyal does not mean agreeing to every idea or decision. Always fight for the interests of the staff and organization.

With the CEO, fight for the staff. With the staff, defend the CEO. Alan S.L. Wong

Outside the circle - What if the CEO still disagrees with you and sticks to his decision?

Do not take personal offense that your views are not accepted. Do not go around criticizing the CEO's decision. Know that there must be an end to your opposition.
Remember who is in authority. Recognize that all earthly authorities are from God (Rom 13:1-7) and the authority of the CEO is never in question.

Exception: As a believer, you are not to obey an instruction that is clearly against God's will as revealed in His Word (Acts 4:1-3,18-20)
As a member of the inner circle, you must present a united front to the staff. Defend the decision to the best of your ability ... always bearing in mind what you can and cannot reveal to the staff.
Should a staff member present facts or views that have not been considered before by the inner circle then promise to bring these new facts or views to the CEO for consideration.

What should you do when the authority over you no longer commands your respect?

You recognise that there are no perfect leaders but what if your leader lied to you and when confronted, denied it? Trust violated, respect lost ... you now find it hard to believe anything that he would say. Should you remove yourself from the authority structure - should you resign and leave?

Christians have differing views on this. Some would say, "If God wants to move you, He will take care of it." Yes, God may and can remove the one in authority. If you hold this view, how long should you wait? Others may say, "Leave since the above situation makes it impossible for you to submit to the said authority."