Vistage Members know that business leaders excel when they work on the business not in the business. So, what IS their business? Can the leaders and everyone else who works for the organization articulate the Vision, Mission, Values and Behaviors that drive them forward? Can they name the top 3 Strategic Initiatives and Key Performance Metrics?
This is not just business school talk, or consultant speak. Organizations with aligned vision and goals move faster. And achieve more. Individuals in customer service or implementation or IT don’t have to ask their supervisors for permission to do their jobs. They know how to prioritize their work. And, can make decisions on their own.
How do they get there? Strategic Planning. I hear the groans. It reminds me of our conversation about weight loss these days. Can’t I use a GLP-1? Can’t AI do it for me? Yes, it can be part. We did some scenario planning in my groups with Speaker Gideon Malherbe a few months ago to suss out the strategies that work no matter what happens in this VUCA world. We need to build ships that survive and thrive in stormy weather and totally becalmed. This is not easy work.
Every decision must be filtered through a lens focused on what moves us forward towards our goals. Are you that clear on your goals? Now, as we get into strategic planning season to spin up 2027 strategies, Vistage Members, can use the Strategic Planning by Vistage Tool to start.
Is it the only way to move forward? No. But it is free to Vistage Members. If the organization’s leaders are not driving strategic thinking though the organization, who will?
The point is this: it is a very tough world out there. Those with a clear strategy can align their folks around the high leverage activities that improve customer experience, revenues and profits. It is time to get started.
If you don’t think Vistage peer groups get value at every meeting-from the speakers, the conversations, a wise Chair, and the input from your peers, don’t click here.
Photo of Mono Lake Fissures.