Menu

Tips & Tricks

How to Identify the Right Employee

How to Identify the Right Employee

, , ,

Are You Questioning If You Have the Right Person?

Leadership teams often grapple with the difficult decision of whether they have the right person in a particular role. It’s a common dilemma that can cause sleepless nights and endless debates. But there’s a simple, clarifying question that can help you cut through the uncertainty.

The Clarifying Question

Ask yourself: Knowing everything you know today, if you went back in time, would you hire this person for the same job?

đź’ˇ Tip: If you’re unsure how to vet candidates for EOS leadership support, consider outside guidance.

This question is powerful because it forces you to confront the reality of your situation. If your immediate response is anything but a confident “yes,” it’s a strong indicator that you may not have the right person in the seat.

Why This Question Works

Often, leaders hesitate to make tough personnel decisions because they are emotionally invested or hopeful for change. However, if you’re already questioning someone’s fit, it’s likely that they aren’t the right person for the role. This question helps you bypass emotional bias and focus on the facts.

Taking Action

If your answer to the clarifying question is “no” or “maybe,” it’s time to take action. Start by documenting performance issues if you haven’t already. This documentation will be crucial in coaching the person out of the role and opening up the seat for someone who is a better fit.

Remember, having the right people in the right seats is essential for achieving your vision and gaining traction. Don’t delay in making the necessary changes to strengthen your team.

Need Guidance?

If you’re struggling with these decisions or need support in implementing EOS® tools like the Vision/Traction Organizer™ or Level 10 Meeting™, schedule a coaching session to get expert guidance tailored to your needs.

Schedule a Free Session Now
4 Lessons to Master Setting Rocks in EOS

4 Ways I Suck at Setting Rocks

, , ,

4 Lessons Learned About Setting Rocks

Setting Rocks is one of the most powerful tools in the EOS® Toolbox, but it’s also one of the most challenging to master. If you’ve ever struggled with defining, tracking, or completing Rocks, you’re not alone. Here are four hard lessons that can help you improve your Rock-setting process and get better results for your team.

Lesson 1: Define What “Done” Looks Like

One of the biggest mistakes teams make is failing to clearly define what “done” means for a Rock. Without a measurable, black-and-white definition of success, it’s easy to get to the end of the quarter and realize the Rock isn’t truly complete.

Take the time to document what “done” looks like. Be specific and measurable. For example, instead of saying, “Improve the onboarding process,” define it as, “Document and implement a new onboarding process with three training modules and a feedback loop.” When you know exactly what success looks like, it’s easier to create a plan to get there.

đź’ˇ Tip: Most leadership teams need EOS support for leadership teams to consistently follow through on their Rocks.

Lesson 2: Break It Down Into Milestones

Even with a clear definition of “done,” Rocks can feel overwhelming without a plan. That’s why it’s critical to break each Rock into 3–10 milestones or steps, complete with due dates throughout the quarter. This gives you a roadmap to follow and makes it easier to track progress during your weekly Level 10 Meeting™.

When you document these milestones, you can quickly identify whether you’re on track or off track. This proactive approach reduces stress and ensures you’re consistently moving toward completion.

Lesson 3: Conduct a Mid-Quarter Rock Review

Another common challenge is losing visibility into what everyone else is working on. While you may see Rock titles and updates during your Level 10 Meeting™, it’s often hard to understand the actual work being done.

A mid-quarter Rock review can solve this. Around the sixth or seventh week of the quarter, schedule a two-hour meeting with your leadership team to focus solely on company Rocks. Spend 20 minutes on each Rock, and ask team members to show their work. For example:

  • If the Rock involves documenting a process, review the draft or outline.
  • If it’s about hiring, look at the candidate pipeline and onboarding steps.
  • If it’s tied to sales, review proposals or the list of prospects.

This open and honest review allows the team to provide insights, course-correct if needed, and ensure everyone is aligned.

Lesson 4: Improve Your Prediction Skills

One of the toughest parts of setting Rocks is accurately predicting your capacity. It’s easy to overcommit at the start of the quarter, only to find that unexpected projects or initiatives take up most of your time.

Hindsight is 20/20, so use past quarters to learn and adjust. Build in extra capacity for unknowns or new opportunities that may arise. By being realistic about what you can handle, you’ll set yourself up for success and avoid the frustration of unfinished Rocks.

đź’ˇ Tip: Even experienced teams benefit from a trusted EOS partner to keep them focused.

Take the Next Step

Setting Rocks is a skill that takes time and practice to master. By defining “done,” breaking Rocks into milestones, conducting mid-quarter reviews, and improving your predictions, you can set your team up for success.

Need help refining your Rock-setting process or navigating other EOS® tools? Schedule a free coaching session to get the guidance you need to achieve your goals.

Schedule a Free Session Now
Maximize Your Accountability Chart with EOS

Maximize Your Accountability Chart in EOS®

, ,

Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Accountability Chart

The Accountability Chart is a cornerstone of the EOS® framework, yet many teams overlook its full potential. Here are three powerful ways to leverage your Accountability Chart that you might not be using yet.

1. Visualize New Roles

When you’re planning to hire a new team member or create a new role, such as a virtual assistant, it’s crucial to incorporate this into your Accountability Chart. By drafting the role on the chart, your team gains a clear visual of how this new person will interact with the rest of the team and what their responsibilities will be. This clarity helps everyone understand the new dynamics and expectations.

2. Solve Issues with IDS

During your Level 10 Meeting™, when you’re using the Identify, Discuss, and Solve (IDS) process to tackle recurring issues, turn to your Accountability Chart. Check who is responsible for the process in question. If it’s not clearly assigned on the chart, that might be why the issue persists. Update the chart to reflect ownership and hold the responsible person accountable. This ensures that every process has a clear owner, reducing confusion and improving accountability.

đź’ˇ Tip: Teams that revisit their accountability chart quarterly often benefit from EOS coaching services to reinforce best practices.

3. Review During Quarterly Conversations

In your quarterly one-on-one conversations, make it a habit to review the Accountability Chart. Ask if anything has evolved in the team member’s role over the past 90 days. Companies using EOS® often experience growth and change, so it’s essential to revisit and update the chart regularly. This practice keeps roles and responsibilities aligned with the company’s current needs and goals.

By using your Accountability Chart in these ways, you can enhance clarity, accountability, and alignment within your team. Ready to take your EOS® implementation to the next level? Schedule a coaching session today and unlock the full potential of your team.

Schedule a Free Session Now
What Does Done Really Mean Turn Vague Rocks into SMART Ones

Transform Vague Goals into SMART Rocks

, , ,

Transforming Vague Goals into SMART Rocks

Have you ever found yourself at the end of a quarter, sitting around the conference table with your leadership team, only to realize that everyone had a different interpretation of what a completed Rock should look like? This scenario is all too common, but there’s a solution: SMART Rocks.

Understanding SMART Rocks

SMART Rocks are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. They provide clarity and direction, ensuring everyone knows exactly what ‘done’ looks like. Let’s explore how to transform vague goals into SMART Rocks with a couple of examples.

Example 1: From Vague to Specific

Consider the Rock: “Sit with admins to look for efficiency improvements.” While the sentiment is clear, the outcome is not. What does ‘done’ look like here? Simply making a list of potential improvements is too vague.

Instead, try this: “Implement three strategies to improve efficiencies for operations.” This version not only focuses on finding efficiencies but also on implementing them within the quarter. Adding a specific number provides a clear target and direction.

Example 2: Adding Measurable Metrics

Another common vague Rock is: “Build pipeline growth.” But how much growth? By one? By 100%?

Revise it to: “Add five qualified builders to the network.” This specific target gives you a clear goal and helps focus your efforts. You might need to reach out to 20 potential builders to achieve this, but the clarity of the target makes it manageable.

The Power of Clarity

SMART Rocks don’t happen by chance. They require thoughtful discussion and clarity. Taking a clarity break or collaborating with a team member can help define what ‘done’ looks like and how to measure it. Once you master this discipline, your Rocks will start to gain real traction.

Need Help with Your Rocks?

If you’re ever stuck with a Rock or need guidance on making it more specific, feel free to jump on my calendar. Let’s work together to ensure your Rocks are SMART and actionable.

Schedule a Free Session Now
Part II - 4 Questions to Pressure-Test Visionary Thinking

Taming the Visionary: Part II – 4 Questions For Your Arsenal

, , ,

Mastering Ideation Sessions with Four Key Questions

In the dynamic world of EOS®, leadership teams often find themselves brimming with ideas and innovations, especially during Level 10 Meetings™. While creativity is essential, it’s crucial to ensure that these ideas align with your organization’s goals and don’t disrupt your current workflow. Here are four essential questions to guide your ideation sessions and keep your team focused on what truly matters.

1. Is This a Shiny Thing?

Before diving into a new idea, ask yourself: Does this align with our goals? Is it critical to our one-year objectives? The Vision/Traction Organizer™ is your compass here. It helps you determine if the idea aligns with your target market, your three-year and ten-year goals, and your core purpose. Use it as your guide to stay grounded and focused.

2. What Issue Is This Idea Solving?

Understanding the problem an idea addresses is vital. Ask: What issue does this solve? Are we adding complexity without reason? Sometimes, the proposed solution might not be the right fit, but it opens up new avenues for discussion. Visionaries often see opportunities that others might miss, leading to innovative solutions. Always question the issue at hand and whether the proposed solution is the best fit.

3. What Will Happen to Our Current Workflow?

Consider the impact on your existing processes. If your team is moving east and a new idea takes you northwest, it requires significant energy and resources. Evaluate whether adopting this change will disrupt your current workflow and how your team will manage this transition.

4. If We Say Yes, What Do We Say No To?

In EOS®, less is often more. If you decide to pursue a new initiative, identify what you will deprioritize to make room for it. With your Rocks and priorities already set for the quarter, it’s essential to maintain focus. Saying yes to something new means saying no to something else, ensuring your team remains aligned and effective.

These four questions are powerful tools during ideation sessions or even during IDS. They help ensure that your team’s creativity is channeled effectively, leading to meaningful change and progress.

Take the Next Step

Need guidance on implementing these strategies or other EOS® tools? Schedule a coaching session to enhance your team’s effectiveness and drive your business forward.

Schedule a Free Session Now
Part I - 4 Buckets to Channel Big Ideas

Taming the Visionary: Part I – 4 Buckets to Channel Big Ideas

, , ,

Managing Visionary Ideas Without Derailing Your Level 10 Meetings™

Do you have a visionary who tends to hijack your Level 10 Meetings™ with a flood of ideas? While their creativity is invaluable, it can sometimes stall decision-making and frustrate the team. Fortunately, there’s a better way to harness their innovative spirit without disrupting your meeting agenda.

Introducing the Ideation Session

Before your team is ready for the Same Page Meeting, consider implementing an ideation session. This is a dedicated space outside of the Level 10 Meeting™ where the visionary can explore their ideas with a small group of trusted team members. Here’s how it works:

Setting Up the Session

Schedule a 30 to 60-minute session weekly or biweekly. Invite the visionary and two to three committee members to participate. This creates a focused environment where ideas can be discussed and categorized effectively.

Categorizing Ideas

During the ideation session, help the visionary categorize their ideas into four distinct buckets:

1. Immediate Application

These are ideas that can be applied today and seamlessly integrate into current operations. Move these to the leadership Level 10 Issues List for immediate action.

2. Long-Term Consideration

Some ideas are great but not urgent. Place these on the long-term issues list to revisit at the end of the quarter.

3. Further Ideation Needed

For ideas that are intriguing but not yet actionable, keep them on the ideation list. Continue discussing them in future sessions until they fit into another category.

4. The Brown File

Not every idea will be a fit. Place those that don’t align with current goals into the ‘brown file.’ They can be revisited in the future if circumstances change.

Protecting Your Level 10 Meeting™

By providing a dedicated space for ideation, you protect the integrity of your Level 10 Meeting™ while still valuing the visionary’s contributions. This approach ensures that meetings remain focused and productive, driving your business forward.

Looking for more ways to enhance your EOS® journey? Schedule a coaching session to explore tailored strategies for your team.

Schedule a Free Session Now
Best EOS Management Tools - PNG

Top EOS Management Tools Ranked by Coach KT

, , ,

Choosing the Right EOS® Software for Your Team

Are you paying for software to manage your EOS® tools? With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which one offers the best user experience. Let’s explore some of the top contenders and see how they stack up.

Ranking EOS® Management Tools

Working with various companies, I’ve had the opportunity to see different software in action. Here’s how they rank based on user experience:

3. EOS One

Unfortunately, EOS One lands at the bottom of the list. While it may have its merits, other tools offer a more seamless experience.

2. Bloom Growth

Previously known as Traction Tools, Bloom Growth was designed for EOS® companies. Although it parted ways with EOS® a few years ago, it still provides a solid framework for managing your EOS® tools.

1. Ninety.io

Ninety.io takes the top spot. Many leadership and department teams I’ve worked with appreciate its functionality and ease of use, making it a favorite among EOS® practitioners.

The Power of Google Sheets

Don’t overlook the simplicity and effectiveness of Google Sheets. Many teams, especially those new to EOS®, start with a simple spreadsheet. Google Sheets can be a powerful tool for running Level 10 Meetings™ without any additional cost.

I’ve conducted hundreds of Level 10 Meetings™ using Google Sheets, and they can be just as impactful as those run on more sophisticated software. If you’re hesitant about adding another tech stack or managing more logins, a well-designed spreadsheet might be all you need.

I’m offering my version of a Google Sheets template for you to use with your leadership team or departments.

Download the template here!

If you’d like a tutorial, feel free to schedule a 30-minute call to discuss best practices for running a Level 10 Meeting™ in any format.

Take the Next Step

Need help deciding on the right tool or want to learn more about running effective Level 10 Meetings™? Schedule a coaching session and let’s work through your EOS® challenges together.

Download Free Level 10 Meeting Template
Scorecard Accountability

How to Improve Scorecard Metrics in EOS®

,

Introduction

If your scorecard metrics are off track, it’s time to take action. Fixing scorecard metrics in EOS® requires accountability, proactive solutions, and leadership team alignment. If an important metric stays off for two to three weeks without action, it will likely remain that way.

So, how do you fix scorecard metrics in EOS® and ensure accountability? Let’s break it down.

Why Scorecard Metrics Matter

  • Early warning system: Identifies problems before they become major issues
  • Accountability tool: Ensures team members follow through on commitments
  • Performance driver: Helps maintain focus on key business objectives

If your Level 10 Meetings™ reveal that the same scorecard metric is off week after week, it’s time to drop it down to the Issues List and IDS (Identify, Discuss, Solve) the root cause.

Addressing the Google Review Issue

For many service-based businesses, Google reviews directly impact sales, operations, and customer trust.

Let’s say your goal is five Google reviews per week, but your scorecard shows zero for four weeks straight. Simply hoping for a change won’t work—you need to take proactive steps to correct the issue.

Passive approach:

Adding a review request link in an email signature (*low response rate, unpredictable results*)

Proactive approach:

  • Make five customer calls: Assign someone to personally call five past customers each week
  • Send a handwritten thank-you note: Include a QR code for quick review submission
  • Deliver a small appreciation gift: Drop off a branded item or small gift
  • Take photos with happy customers: Use them for testimonials and social proof

How to Hold Your Team Accountable

  • Drop it to the Issues List in your Level 10 Meeting™
  • Have an open discussion to determine the root cause
  • Assign clear action steps to the person responsible
  • Review the outcome in next week’s meeting

Take the Next Step

Struggling with scorecard accountability? Need help getting your metrics back on track? Book a free 30-minute IDS session with me, and let’s solve your biggest EOS® challenges together.

Schedule a Free Session Now

2 tools to start your EOS journey

Getting Started with EOS®: The 2 Most Important Tools

,

Introduction

If you’re getting started with EOS®, you’ve likely encountered tools like Rocks, Level 10 Meetings™, Scorecards, Accountability Charts, and the Vision Traction Organizer™. While powerful, trying to implement all of them at once can feel overwhelming. 

So where do you begin? How do you apply EOS® without getting lost in complexity? 

The answer: Start with just two key tools.

Step 1: Lock in Your Level 10 Meetings

The most important first step in your EOS® journey is establishing a Level 10 Meeting™ with your leadership team. This 90-minute weekly meeting becomes sacred time—only missed for vacations or family emergencies.

Why It’s Critical:

  • Keeps your team aligned and accountable
  • Ensures consistent problem-solving and decision-making
  • Builds the discipline needed for EOS® success

Pro Tip:

If you’re not running Level 10 Meetings™ yet, schedule your first one now—even if it’s two weeks out. Simply getting it on the calendar is 80% of the battle!

Step 2: Implement Your First Set of Rocks

Once your Level 10 Meetings™ are in place, the next step is defining your Rocks—your top 3 to 7 priorities that must be completed this quarter. These are the most important things that will drive your business forward.

Why Rocks Matter:

  • They keep your leadership team focused on what truly moves the business forward
  • They prevent day-to-day distractions from consuming your time
  • They create measurable goals that bring traction and momentum

If you can commit to running Level 10 Meetings™ and setting Rocks for your first quarter, you’re ahead of most companies. The other EOS® tools will be waiting for you when you’re ready.

Take the Next Step

Struggling with where to start? Need help implementing Level 10 Meetings™ or defining your first Rocks? Book a free 30-minute IDS session with me, and we’ll work through your biggest EOS® challenge together.

Schedule a Free Session Now
How many people does it take to run a Level 10 meeting

The 4 Key Roles for Running an Effective Level 10 Meeting

Introduction

A well-run Level 10 Meeting involves four essential roles beyond simply attending.

The 4 Key Roles

1. The Integrator (Meeting Facilitator)

The Integrator leads the meeting, ensuring it starts and ends on time while keeping the team accountable. They manage the agenda, facilitate discussions, and ensure that the Scorecard, Rocks, and Headlines are addressed properly. Most importantly, they oversee the Issues List to guarantee that problems make their way onto it and get solved.

2. The Issues List Manager

Throughout the meeting, various topics arise that need further discussion. One person should be responsible for capturing these issues in real time. Whether they surface during Scorecard review, Rock updates, or Headlines, this person ensures they are recorded so the team can IDS (Identify, Discuss, and Solve) them later.

3. The To-Do Recorder

To-dos can emerge at any point during the meeting, sometimes in subtle ways. This person ensures that every action item is clearly defined, assigned to the right person, and given a due date. They should slow the meeting down when necessary to confirm: Who needs to do what by when? Spending 30 extra seconds on clarity now can save hours of confusion later.

4. The Time Manager

Time is of the essence in a Level 10 Meeting. The Time Manager keeps the team on track, ensuring that each agenda item receives the appropriate focus. They must also safeguard the last five minutes of the meeting to recap to-dos, assign cascading messages, and collect meeting ratings.

Rotating Roles for Better Engagement

For leadership teams with many members, rotating these roles quarterly can help distribute responsibility and keep meetings fresh. No one should carry the same role indefinitely; a dynamic approach ensures shared ownership of the meeting’s success.

Make Your Level 10 Meetings More Effective

By clearly defining and assigning these roles, your team can run smoother, more efficient meetings that drive results. If you need help optimizing your Level 10 Meetings or other EOS processes, schedule a free 30-minute IDS session with me.

Click the button below to book your FREE session and take your EOS implementation to the next level!

Schedule a Free Session Now