What’s more important: the consensus that emerges as a result of strategic planning or the connections participants make with one another? Planning participants tell me it’s both.
Something special happens when you bring people together to chart a course for an organization. Thoughtful planning ahead of time enhances the experience for everyone. More importantly, you’ll emerge not only with a strong plan but new relationships and connections. The video below covers how to maximize both of these benefits.
While we’re on the topic of strategic planning, how long has it been since you’ve done one? Lately, I’m hearing from more and more groups that are working from plans that are over five years old. We’re in a rapidly changing environment and that’s too long for a plan to last! I’ve also heard from groups who are “tweaking” their plan. Is tweaking enough today? I don’t think so.
We need to have bold, honest conversations about the future of our organizations. Strategic planning is one way to do it. And if you do it right, not only will you build consensus, but you’ll build the connections you need to realize the plan.