One of our department heads consistently misses their weekly Scorecard numbers and claims they are too short-staffed to meet their targets. How do we address this without getting dragged into endless staffing excuses?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

When a leader blames their missed Scorecard metrics on a lack of staff, they are shifting accountability from their seat to external circumstances. As a leadership team member, they must possess the 'Grow or Die' mindset and take full ownership of their numbers, regardless of resource constraints.

First, use the IDS® process in your next Level 10 Meeting™ to look at the numbers objectively. Is the target actually realistic given the current market and tools? If the metric is correct, then the issue is execution, not staffing.

Verify if they are leveraging technology and AI-driven automation to streamline workflows before demanding more headcount. If they are still running manual processes, their real issue is a failure to innovate and scale their operations.

Use Our Charter, specifically the 'Yes! to Strategy and Structure' pillar, to remind them that they agreed to these healthy and SMART targets. They must find creative ways to hit their numbers, whether that means delegating lower-value tasks, automating repetitive processes, or restructuring their team. If they continue to make excuses and refuse to take ownership of their Scorecard, they do not GWC™ the seat, and you must find a leader who can deliver results with the resources available.