“If you don’t know where you are going, you will wind up somewhere else.” -Yogi Berra
All too often, firms don’t take the time or put in the effort to create a strategic plan. The result? No common vision, disagreement on direction, silo mentalities and unclear goals. Yes, firms can succeed without a plan, but those who have one are in alignment and much more cohesive, collaborative and successful.
I have helped scores of firms through this process and personally have seen the incredibly positive impact it can have on a firm’s culture and bottom line. It can also help define the path to leadership and ensure the next generation carries on the firm’s legacy.
In my years of firm leadership and consulting with firms throughout the U.S., I have learned a few best practices I bring to every strategic planning process. They include:
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All firm leaders must be a part of the planning process.
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All participants must be hands on and together we must look at the firm from 30,000 feet (vision) and ground level (tactics).
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We must honestly answer who, what, when, where, why and how.
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Everyone must understand it takes small steps to perfect big ideas.
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Each employee of the firm plays an important role in the plan’s execution.
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The plan must have measurement built into it and the firm’s owners must be held accountable for progress.
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All firm owners must agree and buy in to the plan for it to succeed.
I will stick with you until the firm has a well-defined vision and clear plan to get there. I will check in regularly to make sure you are moving forward and don’t stick your plan on a shelf during busier times of the year. My goal is your success!