Which statement best describes the sequence implied by the "First Who, Then What" principle?

• A. Place the right people in the right roles first, then set a new vision and strategy
• B. Set the vision first, then hire people to fit it
• C. Implement changes before staffing decisions
• D. Hire outsiders only and ignore internal talent

Answer: (A)

Starting with the people who will lead and do the work is the idea behind this principle. The notion is that you first ensure you have the right people in the right roles, because capable, aligned leaders and teams determine what change is feasible and how smoothly it can be implemented. When you secure the right talent and place people where they can truly contribute, you gain clarity about strengths, gaps, and readiness, which in turn informs a realistic vision and strategy that those people can execute.

If you push a new vision before confirming the team, you risk proposing goals that staff cannot practically deliver, leading to misalignment and resistance. The other options downplay or bypass the importance of who is driving the change, which is why they don’t fit as well with this principle.