The Waterline Model

"Your only goal as a manager, if you do nothing else, is clear roles and clear expectations." — Molly Graham

What It Is

Imagine a team as a boat. Problems below the waterline sink the boat. Leaders often dive deep (scuba) to fix "people problems" first, but they should snorkel first. Start at the surface with structural issues (goals/roles) before addressing interpersonal dynamics.

When To Use

• Friction, confusion, or underperformance within a team
• Before assuming conflict is due to "difficult people"
• When teams are fighting over responsibilities
• As a diagnostic before any team restructuring

The Model