How do we handle department heads who sandbag their hiring requests by claiming AI isn't ready, when we know we can automate those processes?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

When it is time to set quarterly Rocks and annual goals, department heads often ask for more headcount. They are comfortable with the traditional model of adding bodies to solve problems. However, in an AI-leveraged business, this instinct is outdated and dangerous.

To stop this sandbagging, you must change the rules of your planning sessions. Before any department head is allowed to request a new hire, they must prove they have fully optimized their existing team using technology.

Ask them to map out the current process for the role they want to hire. Use the IDS® process during your leadership meetings to analyze the workflow. Identify every step that can be automated, outsourced, or simplified using your current AI tools.

If the department head cannot show that they have maximized their team capacity through automation, deny the hiring request. This forces your leaders to think like true operators instead of lazy recruiters. It aligns with our core value of continuous growth and development. By demanding technological leverage before adding headcount, you protect your margins, keep your organizational structure lean, and force your team to develop the skills needed to run a modern, high-efficiency business.