Do you Have a solid strategy for achieving your business goals and vision—or are you simply “winging it”? Does strategy really matter?
Sadly, many business leaders take the same approach to strategy as Philip Henslowe in the movie Shakespeare in Love:
Philip Henslowe: Mr. Fennyman, allow me to explain about the theatre business. The natural condition is one of insurmountable obstacles on the road to imminent disaster.
Hugh Fennyman: So what do we do?
Philip Henslowe: Nothing. Strangely enough, it all turns out well.
Hugh Fennyman: How?
Philip Henslowe: I don’t know. It’s a mystery.
While there are certainly numbers of us in the business world who can identify with the feeling of dealing with “insurmountable obstacles on the road to imminent disaster,” we don’t have to throw up our hands and lament that, “It’s a mystery.” That approach won’t result in the kind of dynamic growth you’re looking for.
Successful, growing businesses start with vision and goals. Sometimes those goals may seem larger and loftier than our abilities (we call them “BHAGs”: Big Hairy Audacious Goals). But even though they are big goals, they are still clear and can be measured. But simply setting goals isn’t enough.
Philip Henslowe’s approach of, treating things as a mystery that “somehow turns out well” isn’t going to get you where you want to go. You have to have a plan for achieving your goals. You need a solid strategy.
Some people hear the word, “strategy” and think: “Complicated.” A good strategy, however, doesn’t have to be complicated. As a matter of fact, it probably shouldn’t be. Solid strategy really has three essential elements: A Core (it needs to be based on the core values, purpose, and competency of the organization); a Framework that integrates key components of strategy into cohesive thinking; and an actual Plan that maps out the specific steps your business needs to take.
It’s not really complicated—but that doesn’t make it easy. You need to have a structured approach to pull those three elements together so that you end up with a strategy that will help you reach your goals. I know it does because I’ve walked thousands of companies through this process. It requires some discipline and guidance, but it’s what’s required if you really want to grow your business.
Of course, you could take the Philip Henslowe approach and do nothing, hoping that “Strangely enough, it will all turn out well.”
Need help growing your business? With over 35 years of experience and thousands of companies assisted, Chuck Kocher and The Transformation Company can help you scale your business into a truly exceptional business capable of high growth strategies. Businesses are always changing, don’t let yours be left behind. Stand out with our business and executive leadership programs – designed to challenge and improve your business. Your business will thank you for it. Contact me today for a free consultation! 719-339-9505