I hired an Integrator to run the business, but they seem disengaged and keep asking me to make the final decisions. Does this mean they do not have the Want for the seat, or am I causing this behavior?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

When a newly hired Integrator appears disengaged, it is rarely a simple lack of Want for the seat. More often, it is a symptom of the Visionary failing to let go of the vine. If you are constantly bypass-managing your team, overriding decisions, or stepping in to solve operational problems, you are castrating your Integrator. They will naturally step back and stop taking ownership because they know you will eventually interfere anyway. To diagnose this, you must run a brutal GWC™ check on yourself first. Do you actually want to let go of the daily operations, or do you secretly enjoy the chaos? Next, have an open conversation with your Integrator outside of your regular Level 10 Meeting™. Ask them directly if they feel they have the authority to run the business. Review the Accountability Chart to ensure the boundaries between the Visionary seat and the Integrator seat are crystal clear. The Integrator must have the authority to manage the leadership team and execute the vision. If you agree to step back and they still refuse to take the reins, then you have a genuine GWC™ issue with that person. They may lack the confidence or the conative drive to lead. But do not make that call until you have honestly evaluated whether your own behavior is the root cause of their disengagement.