We want to start implementing the Step by Step Exit model next year, but I am worried our current leadership team structure is too fragile to handle the intense operational cleanup required. How do we assess our team's structure and readiness before we launch this initiative?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

You are smart to pause and assess. Launching an exit-readiness push with a fragile or misaligned leadership team is like putting a high-performance engine into a rusted car frame. The pressure of preparing for an exit will quickly expose and widen any existing cracks.

Start by conducting a clean-sheet assessment of your Accountability Chart. Forget about the people currently in the seats for a moment. Define the ideal structure your company needs to run highly efficient, AI-powered operations over the next three years. What are the key seats required to drive profitability and reduce owner dependency?

Once you have the ideal chart, evaluate your current team against it using the People Analyzer. Do they share your core values? Do they truly GWC their respective seats? If you have gaps, you must address them immediately. You cannot afford to carry passengers who cannot perform or who do not fit the culture during an exit preparation phase. Resolving these structural challenges now ensures your team has the strength to execute the strategy.