Book Review: TRACTION by Gino Wickman
If you know me, you know I’m a book lover — always have been. While I enjoy getting lost in fiction, I also turn to books for insight and inspiration as a business leader.
My ideal setup? A hammock, a beach, a daiquiri, and a great read. But let’s be honest — a book with a cup of coffee on my deck or reading in the car during soccer practice can work just as well.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about how to share more of what I’m reading and how it connects to the real-world HR strategy work I do with growing businesses. So, I’m starting a mini LinkedIn-style book club — short reflections on books that spark big ideas.
First up: Traction by Gino Wickman.
If you’ve read it, you know it’s a masterclass in operational clarity, built around the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). But one of the most powerful lessons isn’t about systems — it’s about people.
Wickman says every successful company needs the right people in the right seats. Simple? Yes. Easy? No. That’s where HR strategy matters.
As someone who helps businesses scale smartly, here’s how I see some of Traction’s core ideas come to life in HR:
1. “Right People” Starts with Culture
Wickman defines the “right people” as those who live your core values. But values only matter if they show up in hiring, feedback, and development.
➡️ HR in action:
✔ Hiring profiles that include values-based competencies
✔ Interview guides that assess mindset and behavior
✔ Feedback systems that reinforce culture
2. “Right Seats” Means Clear Structure
The Accountability Chart is about roles, not titles — and clarity drives accountability. As companies grow, role confusion creeps in. HR helps restore structure.
➡️ HR in action:
✔ Org charts aligned to strategy
✔ Defined accountability pathways
✔ Role clarity that scales with growth
3. Real Results Come from Strong Leadership
People issues are business issues. HR helps build leadership muscle so managers can lead through change.
➡️ HR in action:
✔ Training tied to real-world scenarios
✔ Coaching for difficult conversations
✔ Performance frameworks that drive growth
Traction and the EOS framework gives you the system. HR brings it to life.
At ScaleSmart HR, we help companies put the right people in the right seats, build culture alignment, and develop leadership that fuels momentum. Reach out to me or comment below if you've read the book and want to share your thoughts or if you're interested in learning more about ScaleSmart HR Solutions!
