You Don’t Need a Title to Lead. You Need DRIVE.
The fastest way to build trust, gain buy-in, and make an impact is to stop talking about what’s broken and start leading people to fix it.
How to Make Better Decisions, Faster—And Get Buy-In Every Time
At 120VC, we don’t talk about problems... we solve them.
The DRIVE Model is for proactive leaders who don’t wait for permission to lead. It’s a simple, repeatable framework designed to help you and your team identify a problem, explore real solutions, and make a clear, informed recommendation to move the needle. Fast.
DRIVE gives you the tools to show up with clarity, confidence, and a plan. Not just “here’s the issue,” but “here’s what we’ve considered, here’s our recommendation, and here’s how we move forward.” It’s how high-performing teams lead up, lead out, and get sh*t done. Without wasting time, spinning wheels, or waiting for someone else to figure it out.
This isn’t theoretical. It’s practical leadership in action. Define. Research. Identify. Verify. Execute.
DRIVE turns problem solvers into impact players. It empowers teams to lead with autonomy, align with purpose, and deliver results that matter. Because when everyone on the team is showing up like a leader, that’s when the magic happens.
“We tell our team members to bring us solutions, not problems. We tell them not to ask us how to do their jobs. We want to develop them instead of telling them what and how to do.”
The DRIVE Model
D - Define the Problem
Begin by clearly defining the problem. Make sure the problem is well-understood and precisely defined, ensuring that it is specific, measurable, and comprehensible to all involved team members.
R - Research Three Solutions
Conduct thorough research to develop three distinct and viable solutions to the problem. This step encourages comprehensive analysis and creative thinking, allowing the team to explore a wide range of possibilities and consider various strategic options. What would you do if you couldn’t fail?
I - Identify the Best Solution
Analyze the potential outcomes of each researched solution, assessing their feasibility, impact, and alignment with the team’s objectives. Choose the solution that optimally addresses the problem while considering resource efficiency and potential risks.
V - Verify with Leadership
Present the problem, the three researched solutions, and your recommended best solution to leadership. Ensure this briefing is detailed and concise, providing only the necessary information to facilitate an informed decision by the leadership.
E - Execute or Adjust as Directed
Once the chosen solution is approved, move forward with its implementation. If leadership suggests modifications, adapt the solution accordingly. This final step ensures that the execution is aligned with the team’s strategy and receives the necessary support, maintaining accountability and effectiveness throughout the process.
The Drive Model should be used to gain alignment anytime:
You or a team member is faced with a challenge that might impact others on the team positively or negatively.
You or a team member lacks confidence in their approach and needs validation, or
Instead of seeking feedback or asking someone else how to complete your assignment.
At the most basic level, the DRIVE Model should be used any time a solution to a challenge/opportunity requires collaboration.
Once you have a clear definition, develop three solutions for the conversation and have an opinion as to which one you think is the best going into the conversation. Then be prepared to be flexible as new information is presented during the collaboration.
“True collaboration doesn’t start with a question, a blank page, or a green field. It starts with a problem well-defined by the person who sees it first. If you see it, own it even if you eventually pass the ball. ”
Implementing the DRIVE Model:
Once you have a clear definition, develop three solutions for the conversation and have an opinion as to which one you think is the best going into the conversation. Then be prepared to be flexible as new information is presented during the collaboration.By Defining clear problems, Researching diverse solutions, Identifying the most viable option, Verifying alignment with overarching strategies, and Executing with flexibility to adjust as needed, the DRIVE Model not only enhances individual and team capabilities but also solidifies their roles as crucial drivers of the company's success. Through this model, we equip our teams to not just adapt to the future but to actively shape it, embodying the true spirit of a Multiplier.
This approach ensures that the foundational principles of autonomy, collaboration, and empowerment are not just theoretical ideals but active driving forces in our daily operations, making every team member an irreplaceable asset in our relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Shift:
At the end of the day, leadership isn’t about titles... it’s about taking ownership, making things happen, and bringing others with you.
The DRIVE Model isn’t just a framework. It’s a mindset shift.
It’s how we stop admiring problems and start solving them. It’s how we show up ready to lead... every meeting, every project, every time. With clarity, confidence, and a plan.
So the next time you see a problem, don’t wait. DRIVE it forward.
Define it. Research it. Identify the best way through. Verify alignment. Execute like a pro.
Because the fastest way to build trust, gain buy-in, and make an impact is to stop talking about what’s broken.... and start leading people to fix it.
J. Scott
Jason Scott, CEO of 120VC, empowers leaders to build high-performing teams and drive profitability with 25+ years of expertise. He transforms cost centers into profit engines for Fortune 1000s and startups. Book J for leadership training or speaking today, and explore more powerful insights to transform the way you lead!
