blog

Ready to Scale? Build the Machine First

Written by Paul Service | Apr 9, 2025 1:46:57 PM

Most business owners dream of scaling – more clients, bigger revenue, new markets. But here’s the brutal truth: growth exposes weaknesses.

 

Before you scale up, you need to tighten up. That’s the core idea behind Gino Wickman’s book Traction – and it’s one of the smartest things any founder can focus on.

 

Because scaling chaos? That just gives you a bigger mess.

 

 

 

So what does it mean to build a business that’s truly ready to scale?

 

 

It means creating a system that runs without you holding every piece together with duct tape and sleepless nights.

 

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

 

Clear Strategy – Know exactly where you’re going and why. Your team should be able to repeat it in their sleep.

 

90-Day Plans – Set short, sharp priorities. Focus on what moves the needle now, not 12 months from now.

 

Right People, Right Seats – Everyone on your team has clear roles and is doing what they’re best at. No passengers.

 

Scorecards & Metrics – What gets measured gets managed. If you don’t have numbers to track weekly, you’re guessing.

 

Regular Check-ins – Weekly pulse meetings keep energy up and issues visible before they turn into problems.

 

Real Accountability – No more vague responsibilities. Own the outcome, or adjust fast.

 

 

 

Traction isn’t sexy. But it works.

 

 

It’s not about visionary big ideas – it’s about operational discipline. That’s the engine room that fuels real, sustainable growth.

 

If you’re serious about levelling up, start by building a system that deserves scale.