As a business coach or EOS Implementer, you’re constantly helping leadership teams make better decisions, gain clarity, and get everyone rowing in the same direction. But sometimes, even the most competent teams get stuck, especially when decisions feel murky or priorities aren’t clear.
This is where the strategy alignment model comes in. It’s a simple, powerful way to help your clients assess decisions through the EOS lens and create lasting alignment.
Whenever a leadership team weighs a new hire, partnership, or big strategic move, this model helps them answer one core question: Does this decision align us with who we are, what we do, and where we’re going?
When used consistently, this tool transforms how your clients lead—because every decision supports their culture, focus, and long-term vision.
The V/TO: The Blueprint for Strategic Alignment
At the center of EOS is the Vision/Traction Organizer (V/TO). You already know how powerful it is to get teams 100% on the same page. But what many coaches miss is how to help clients use the V/TO as a daily filter for decision-making.
The V/TO spells out:
- Core Values – Who they are at the core.
- Core Focus – Why they exist and what they do best.
- 10-Year Target – Where they’re going long term.
Together, these elements serve as a strategy alignment model for evaluating decisions and opportunities through the filter of a company’s true north.
Related Reading: The EOS Alignment Model: What It Is and How It Works
Ensuring Strategic Alignment with 3 Key Questions
This strategy alignment model simplifies strategic decision-making into three simple but powerful questions. Use these to coach your clients through high-stakes choices or build them into their quarterly planning process.
1. Does the Decision Align with Our Core Values?
Everything starts with culture. If the decision doesn’t reflect your client’s Core Values, it’s a “no.”
Coaches, remind your clients that culture isn’t negotiable. Whether it’s hiring someone who gives off the wrong vibe or partnering with a value-mismatch vendor, misalignment here creates cracks in the foundation.
Tip: Push your clients to go beyond lip service. Ask for real examples of when their Core Values were or weren’t honored—and what the impact was.
Related Reading: No Cracks in Our Teamness: The Importance of Alignment in Decision-Making
2. Does It Support Our Core Focus?
Once it passes the values check, ask: Does it keep us focused on our sweet spot?
The Core Focus combines Purpose/Cause/Passion with a clear Niche. It protects your clients fromchasing shiny objects.
Tip: When clients are tempted by “exciting” new opportunities, remind them of the Core Focus. Is this a distraction, or is it fuel for the fire they’re already building?
Related Reading: Five Misconceptions About Maintaining Team Alignment
3. Does It Fit Our 10-Year Target?
Finally, zoom out: Does this move us toward our long-term vision—or pull us off course?
The 10-Year Target is your client’s big-picture, measurable destination. It brings patience and perspective to decision-making.
Tip: In coaching sessions, ask clients to visualize their 10-Year Target. Then, ask, “If we say yes to this now, are we still on that path?”
Related Reading: The Power of Alignment: Unlocking Greater Traction
Why This Strategy Alignment Model Works
This strategy alignment model provides a simple, repeatable way to coach clarity into your clients’ most challenging decisions. It’s practical. It’s pure EOS. And when used well, it helps leadership teams:
- Gain traction faster
- Avoid misalignment traps
- Lead with confidence
Ready to Use This with Your Clients?
Start by walking them through their V/TO or revisit and refresh it together. The V/TO is free and available in the EOS Toolbox.
And if you’re a coach who loves tools like this and wants to go deeper with entrepreneurial leadership teams, check out what it means to Become an EOS Implementer. It’s an incredible way to expand your impact, simplify your coaching, and help more clients get what they want from their businesses.
