I know what you’re probably thinking, “Strategic planning is a GROUP effort” and…you’re right! It is!
Strategic planning for an organization relies heavily on the collaboration of a group. The different insights, experiences, and skills belonging to each member will enhance the work of your team.
Why?
There’s truth in the old saying, “two heads are better than one.” In other words, when you utilize a collaborative team throughout the strategic planning process, you are less likely to overlook obstacles, and more likely to capitalize on the collective strengths of your organization.
In essence…your strategic plan will be stronger and better when created together.
Now, don’t get me wrong, just because I am encouraging you to utilize a team in your strategic planning does not in any way minimize your role as the team leader.
In fact, the success of your strategic planning, in many ways, depends on your strength as a leader.
The leader sets the tone for the whole planning experience. The other team members will, inevitably, follow your lead (pardon the pun).
If you are preparing to lead your team through a strategic planning initiative, here are key things to keep in mind:
- Check Your Attitude
The way that you approach the strategic planning meetings is likely how your team members will respond. If you approach the work as “just another thing to get done” or view it as a burden in your already busy schedule, your team will absorb and mirror those attitudes.
Likewise, if you intentionally show excitement and investment in the planning process, you are far more likely to have an excited and invested team.
- Set Clear & Specific Expectations
If you as the leader are not clear about your expectations and goals for your collaborative time, your planning sessions won’t be effective.
Think of it this way: without clear expectations, your team is essentially “shooting in the dark.” Although their efforts may be filled with zeal, they aren’t likely to hit the target. Guide your team by offering clear expectations for each collaborative meeting.
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- What are you trying to accomplish?
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- What is the timeframe your team has to work with?
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- What are the individual responsibilities of each member?
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- Define Success
What does “success” look like for your strategic planning? What is your end goal?
Once you’ve established your overall definition of success, it can be helpful to break it down further by defining what success looks like at each individual meeting. These benchmark goals will help to keep you on track towards your ultimate goal.
Strategic planning is an incredibly helpful process for any organization. It allows you to map out future goals and plan for your success. As the leader of your team, it’s worth taking the time to evaluate your own approach to strategic planning to ensure that your collaborative time together is as effective as it can possibly be.
If you’ve found this content to be helpful and informative, please share the love! Pass it along to other leaders in your life who could benefit from and appreciate these practical and tactical tips and advice.
Article was contributed by: Maria Lees, Team Writer with Sarah Boxx
