There’s a common misconception that a company rock is one that requires the whole team’s involvement—or that it’s something a leader couldn’t complete alone. When we first implemented EOS at ATEC, our team spent the better part of a year confused about this. So let me clear it up.
The big difference? Company Rocks are more important.
That’s it. That’s the core distinction. But understanding why is the real key.
1. Visibility = Leadership Opportunity
Company Rocks appear on your V/TO and are visible across the entire organisation. Each quarter, when you stand in front of your team and share what’s been accomplished—and what’s coming next—you’re reporting on Company Rocks.
Individual Rocks, by contrast, stay within the leadership team. They’re not part of the broader narrative.
Now consider this: if your Individual Rock completion rate is 80%, but Company Rock completion is 40%, what message does that send? It’s visible. And it undermines your ability to foster a culture of accountability—because accountability always starts at the top.
Great leaders model what they expect.
Company Rocks are your chance to demonstrate accountability and leadership to the whole organisation.
2. They’re the Real Priorities
When I work with leadership teams across Shropshire and the West Midlands, we use a clear, proven process to set Rocks every quarter. We always start with Company Rocks—because these are the ones that move the business forward in a meaningful way.
We’re strict: 3–7 Company Rocks only. If something doesn’t make the cut, it might become an Individual Rock instead. These often support a single department or area—but aren’t quite at the level of company-wide impact.
So, the process itself naturally separates what’s important from what’s essential.
In Summary
Company Rocks are more important because:
- They’re visible to the whole business.
- They represent the highest-impact priorities.
- They offer leaders the opportunity to lead by example.
If you want a culture of accountability, start by nailing your Company Rocks.
