Bite-sized things are delicious.
Jalapeno poppers.
Bacon wrapped dates.
Donut holes.
I could go on…
Bite-sized isn’t just good in food, it can be the key to starting the fiscal year off right, with a strategic plan that works.
So how do you make an effective, bite-sized strategic plan for the year? Try these steps:
1) Start. That’s right, just start somewhere. Any thought you give the process or your goals is better than nothing.
2) Don’t be intimidated. You know your business. You can do this!
3) Keep it simple. Maybe your plan will serve you for the whole year or maybe it will be for this quarter – do what you can and what suits your personality.
4) Outsource if you need to. If you need help from your peers or a business management professional reach out and get it. The Alternative Board is a great resource if you don’t mind me saying.
5) Make sure your fundamentals are solid. Your company vision should align with your personal vision. If that’s not true yet, make it so.
6) Share your plan with your staff. Explain to them what your goals are and how they can help. Get their buy-in and hold them accountable to help you achieve the goals that will make your company a collective success.
7) Allow yourself to be uncomfortable so you can get comfortable. Strategic planning is a process that takes time, as well as some serious thought and commitment to revising the plan over time. Be patient with yourself while you grow.
So there you have it, seven steps to a bite-sized strategic plan that will help you savor the life you deserve – sounds delicious to me.
Click here to access a free, comprehensive toolbox to help you develop a strategic plan.
By Blair Koch
