Yesterday we shared five ways board members can orchestrate a successful CEO exit. But what about the person leaving the role?
Exiting the CEO role isn’t just a logistical shift—it’s an emotional one. Even when the timing feels right, the final stretch can be emotional, stirring up feelings of lost identity and status. But handled with skill, a leadership exit itself becomes an act of leadership. Here’s how to exit gracefully and set up your company for lasting success.
Do the emotional work early. Start preparing long before your farewell. Reflect on your legacy, close loops, and create your own rituals of closure. This internal work helps prevent unresolved feelings from leaking into unproductive behavior.
Hand over with grace. Set your successor up for success. Build a structured handover that covers responsibilities and relationships—but also know when to step back. Exercising discipline in saying less can be more powerful than saying more.
Use signals to reinforce culture. Your final actions send a message. Choose symbols and gestures that reflect shared values and continuity. Whether it’s a simple thank-you note or a creative farewell metaphor, your tone matters more than any speech. |
