In a world where trust is the cornerstone of relationships, both personal and professional, keeping promises is not just a virtue—it’s a necessity. For entrepreneurs and business leaders, a promise kept is more than fulfilling a commitment; it’s a demonstration of integrity, accountability, and credibility. The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) offers practical tools and disciplines to help leaders and teams keep their promises and build trust within their organizations.
The Power of Accountability
One of the core components of EOS is fostering accountability. The Accountability Chart is a foundational tool that goes beyond traditional org charts. It defines clear roles and responsibilities, ensuring that everyone knows who owns what. When responsibilities are explicit, promises are less likely to fall through the cracks. Teams can rely on each other because there is no ambiguity about who is responsible for delivering results.
Setting and Achieving Rocks
EOS encourages teams to set quarterly goals, known as “Rocks.” These are the top priorities that must be accomplished within a specific timeframe. By focusing on Rocks, leaders can ensure that promises made to customers, employees, and stakeholders are consistently met. The discipline of prioritizing and breaking goals into manageable actions helps organizations stay on track and deliver on their commitments.
Using the Level 10 Meeting™ Framework
The Weekly Level 10 Meeting is a game-changer for staying aligned and accountable. This structured meeting format ensures that teams review progress, identify issues, and create action plans. The Issues List, a key part of the meeting, allows leaders to address roadblocks that might impede promise-keeping. By fostering open communication and solving problems collaboratively, EOS ensures that teams remain focused and dependable.
Making Valid Requests and Responses
A critical aspect of keeping promises is the ability to make valid requests and navigate responses effectively. Valid requests are clear, specific (about deliverables and timeframe), and directed to the appropriate person. Alongside valid requests, there are only four valid responses:
- Yes: A clear agreement to fulfill the request.
- No: A respectful decline, maintaining clarity and trust.
- Counteroffer: A proposal to meet the request in a different way or on a different timeline.
- Commitment to Commit: A promise to provide an answer by a specific time.
Understanding and practicing these responses helps teams communicate clearly, manage expectations, and ensure commitments are realistic and achievable. This practice aligns seamlessly with EOS’s focus on clarity and accountability. (See my prior blog post to go deeper on how to Amplify Accountability in your organization).
Scorecard Metrics for Consistency
EOS’s Scorecard tool brings measurable data to the forefront. By tracking key metrics, teams can identify trends and take proactive steps to fulfill their promises. For instance, if a metric indicates a potential delay in delivering a product, the team can intervene early and maintain their commitment to the customer.
A Culture of Discipline
Ultimately, EOS instills a culture of discipline. By following its processes consistently, organizations create an environment where promises are not only made but are systematically kept. This discipline builds trust, strengthens relationships, and enhances the organization’s reputation.
In conclusion, keeping promises is a hallmark of effective leadership and organizational health. By leveraging EOS tools like the Accountability Chart, Rocks, Level 10 Meetings, the Scorecard, and incorporating practices like making valid requests with clear responses, leaders can create a culture where promises are kept—every time. Trust and reliability are not accidental; they are the result of disciplined execution and a commitment to excellence.
Did you know I can help you and your team to make and keep promises like pros? Let’s talk! I’m here to help!