We have a long-term executive on our leadership team who is resistant to the accountability of EOS® and often checks out during our full-day sessions. How do you handle this kind of passive resistance in the room without creating a hostile environment?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Passive resistance or checking out during a session day is a critical issue that must be addressed immediately. It cannot be ignored because it acts as an anchor on the rest of the leadership team and signals that accountability is optional.

During our session days, I create a safe but highly honest environment. If an executive is checking out, checking their phone, or displaying resistant body language, I will call attention to it directly but constructively. I might ask them for their specific input on the issue we are solving, or ask them to explain their perspective on why they feel a particular tool or decision will not work.

My goal is to draw out the underlying objection. Often, resistance stems from fear of failure or a misunderstanding of how the tools work. By bringing their concerns into the open, the entire team can use the IDS® process to address them. We focus on the issue, not the person.

However, if the resistant behavior continues, it usually points to a deeper issue regarding their fit on the Accountability Chart or their alignment with your core values. After the session, I will debrief with the Visionary and Integrator to discuss the behavior and help you plan the next steps. My recommendation is to never tolerate passive-aggressive behavior; address it openly during the session so the team can move forward together.