As we head into the last quarter of 2012, the subject of strategic planning should be on the top of your list.  In my travels, however, I’ve found that companies fall into one of three categories when it comes to Strategic Planning:

1. Highly Focused, Aligned and Effective – If you are in this category, you are well positioned to take advantage of the many opportunities that come from an economy in recovery.  You have a 1-Page Plan that clearly identifies Core Values, Purpose, Brand Promise, KPI’s (Key Performance Indicators), Annual Initiatives and Quarterly Rocks so that you and your people can know exactly what to do and how to do it.  REMEMBER: Set your Quarterly meetings up now to stay on track! And – you are ready to focus on killing your competition and achieving your full potential in the marketplace.

2. Some General Idea of Where You’re Going – Most companies live here. You are doing some right things right but you keep hitting plateaus that slow down your momentum or even stop you in your tracks.  You’re adept at solving your problems,when you can identify them. Maybe our 4-Decisions Assessment can help identify where to adjust and get moving again.

Or, perhaps you can’t get the clear picture for your company because your own personal destiny is unclear.

Bestselling author (he’s also a great business advisor) Kevin Daum addressed this topic very powerfully in his recent Inc. Column. If this sounds like your biggest challenge, and you’d like to define your preferred future, check out his free detailed Planning Document at kevindaum.com/future.  And, contact him directly if interested in going further.  We’ve got a special discount for you – just tell him Cheryl Beth sent you. 

And finally you may be in the third category…

3. Flying by the Seat of Your Pants – For you strategic planning means figuring out what to do this month, this week or even day to day. Your people are constantly waiting for you to tell them what to do, when you all aren’t busy putting out fires.  You are what Jim Collins calls “A genius with a thousand helpers.”  If you are tired of living in a reactive and volatile business environment that is hampering growth and stability, it’s probably time to get your house in order.

Take a look at this fun but poignant video.  (By the way, it’s only funny because it’s true.)

And if this is you, it’s high time you sign up for our upcoming “Four Decisions: Mastering the Rockefeller Habits” workshop coming up on November 8th! Come get your team aligned, focused and on the same page. Why let 2013 be the unlucky year in your company history?

Whichever category you are in, this is the time to reassess and prepare.  Once the election is over the uncertainty will subside no matter who wins.  Companies who are well positioned and confident will win hands down.  Wouldn’t it be nice to be one of those?

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,