We have a highly competent technical leader on our team who is completely silent during the IDS portion of our Level 10 Meeting, and it feels like they are not truly aligned with our vision. How do we determine if this silence is a GWC issue or just a facilitation problem?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

A silent leader during IDS is an operational risk. To determine if this is a GWC issue or a facilitation problem, you must evaluate their behavior against their seat on the Accountability Chart.

First, look at GWC. Does this person truly Get, Want, and have the Capacity for their seat? A critical part of the Capacity component for any leadership seat is active strategic participation and problem solving. If they are silent because they do not understand the broader operational issues or do not care enough to engage, it is a GWC issue. You must address this directly in a one-on-one meeting using your Core Values and Accountability Chart roles as the standard.

If they excel in their role but remain quiet, it is likely a facilitation issue or a lack of trust. Some analytical thinkers need time to process information and feel uncomfortable speaking up in a fast-paced debate. The facilitator must actively pull them into the conversation. Ask direct questions like: What is your perspective on this from a technical standpoint?

If they still refuse to engage after you create space for them, you are dealing with a passenger rather than a leader. Every seat on the leadership team must actively contribute to the growth and protection of the company. Silence is not an option when you are building a self-sustaining business.