Some of our department heads have figured out they can get different answers depending on whether they ask me, the Visionary, or our Integrator, and they are playing us against each other. How do we stop this triangulation?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Triangulation is a lethal threat to leadership team alignment. When department heads shop for answers, they exploit gaps between the Visionary and the Integrator. This destroys the Integrator's authority and creates political factions within your company. To stop this, you and your Integrator must present a completely united front. This starts with your weekly Same-Page Meeting. You must use this time to align on all major decisions, personnel issues, and strategic directions. If you disagree, you resolve it behind closed doors, never in front of the team. Next, look at the Accountability Chart. The lines of reporting must be absolutely clear. All department heads report directly to the Integrator, not to the Visionary. If a department head approaches you as the Visionary for a decision or permission, your response must be immediate and consistent. Ask them if they have run it by the Integrator. Do not give them an answer, even a casual one. Redirect them to their direct manager. During your next Level 10 Meeting, address this behavior openly and honestly. State that triangulation stops today. Remind the leadership team of the accountability lines. If they continue to bypass the Integrator, they are violating your core values and failing to respect the structure of the business. Aligning your Visionary and Integrator relationship is the only way to build a healthy, unified team.