Strategic planning, when effectively applied, improves an organization’s likelihood to achieve short and long-term goals. Yet many of us struggle with the appropriate follow through. According to an intelligence unit report by The Economist, 61% of respondents admitted their organizations struggle to bridge the gap between strategy formulation and day-to-day implementation.
So, what are the best next steps to implement a strategic plan?
Over the next few days, I will share one tip each day that is designed to help you, and your organization, follow through on a strategic plan. When applied correctly, these tips can create alignment and ultimately help your organization reach its goals.
Tip #10: Leaders must actively demonstrate their support of the strategic plan and lead by example, focusing on the plan without micromanaging. Executives should lead the structured process but not micromanage the plan execution.
Did you miss my previous tips on strategic plan implementation and follow through? Check them out here:
Tip 1: Communications plan
Tip 2: Transparency
Tip 3: Accessibility
Tip 4: Quarterly focus
Tip 5: Monthly cadence meetings
Tip 6: KPIs
Tip 7: Overcoming obstacles
Tip 8: Problem resolution
Tip 9: Daily huddle agenda
Looking for additional tips and proven strategies to identify and meet business objectives this year? Join me on January 21 for the New Year, New Clarity: Strategic Planning Through a Continuous Improvement Lens webinar. We’ll discuss how to identify goals and deliverables; conduct a S.W.O.T. (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) Analysis; work on building contingency plans; and establish an internal communication plan to ensure alignment throughout the organization. Learn more and sign up at Lean Frontiers.