One of the most important responsibilities of any leader is ensuring that the right people are in the right seats. As Jim Collins famously stated in Good to Great, before a company can go anywhere meaningful, it must first get the right people on the bus—and in the right seats. Only then can an organization truly accelerate toward greatness.

But how do you know if the right people are in the right roles? Talent decisions can be complex, emotional, and often clouded by assumptions. That’s where a structured, intentional approach to evaluating team members becomes essential.

Why “Right People, Right Seats” Matters

When people are in roles that align with their strengths, organizations thrive. Productivity increases, morale improves, collaboration strengthens, and innovation flourishes. Conversely, when someone is misaligned—when their skills or motivations don’t fit their responsibilities—frustration, disengagement, and turnover are often the result.

Jim Collins’ research highlights that great companies don’t start with a strategy—they start with who. Getting the right people in the right places allows leaders to adapt with agility, because when the right team is in place, they can figure out what to do as circumstances evolve.

Turning Insight into Action: The Role of Assessments

We work with organizations to bring objectivity and clarity to the process of evaluating talent. One of the most effective tools we use is employee assessments, which provide valuable insights into how individuals think, work, and lead.

Assessments can help leaders:

  • Identify top performers and future leaders
  • Uncover areas for development or coaching
  • Improve team dynamics and communication

  • Align roles and responsibilities with natural strengths

There are many types of assessments available—including skill-based, personality, behavioral, and 360-degree feedback tools. Each brings a unique perspective to understanding fit and potential.

For example, Hogan Assessments are particularly effective in revealing both strengths and potential derailers in leadership behavior, while our broader Employee Assessments suite can help organizations build stronger, more cohesive teams.

Building a Culture of Alignment and Growth

Employee assessments aren’t about judgment—they’re about alignment. When used thoughtfully, they promote a culture of transparency, growth, and development. They help leaders move beyond gut instinct and base decisions on data and insight.

Equally important, assessments can serve as a foundation for development conversations—empowering employees to take ownership of their growth and helping leaders provide targeted support.

Moving Toward Greatness

Getting the right people in the right seats isn’t a one-time project—it’s an ongoing process of evaluation, alignment, and intentional leadership. When done well, it strengthens not just performance, but culture, engagement, and trust across the organization.

At Dame Leadership, we help leaders make informed, purposeful decisions about their people. If you’re ready to strengthen your team and ensure you have the right people in the right seats, contact us today to learn more about how our assessment solutions can support your organization.