Tuesday, August 10, 2010

The Heart of Business Strategy

We usually think of business strategy as some sort of aspirational market positioning statement. Doubtless that's part of it. But I believe that the number one "strategic strength" is excellence in execution and systemic relationships (i.e., with everyone we come in contact with).
Start to integrate the following 21 rules and observe how your team's engagement improves - which ultimately leads to business growth and success.

1) Say "Thank you" to everyone even peripherally involved in some activity-especially those "deep in the hierarchy."

This works wonders! When did you leave the last time a little thank you note for your direct report or peer?
2) Smile.

A smile can be a door opener and can take the sharpness out of a situation.
3) Don't accept the "blame game."

When a mistake happens, let people take responsibility and give them the opportunity to fix it.
4) Hire enthusiasm.

Enthusiasm is contagious. Create an environment of joy and passion which will result in higher performance and better health.
5) Hire optimists.

Optimists know how to take calculated risks which results in innovation and progress.

6) Expose all would-be hires to something unexpected-weird. Observe their reaction.

If they are up to dealing with it, they will be ready with any unexpected situation in business. It also shows you how open-minded and flexible they are.

7) Become a student of all you will meet with.

You can learn from anyone. Be open to new information!
8) Listen and hear.

Not only listen to people; hear what they really say. You learn a lot just by listening

9) Construct small leadership opportunities for junior people within days of starting on the job.

You want to grow leaders and talents within the company.

10) Promote "people people" for all managerial jobs.

Not every super star is a good manager or leader. Choose people with great communication and social skills.

11) Hire and promote for demonstrated curiosity. Check their past commitment to continuous learning.

People who are curious are passionate, and they are willing to learn.
12) Choose diversity.

A healthy mix of people leads to growth.

13) Work on first and last impressions.

It takes only a few seconds to form a first impression about someone. The last impression is what people take with them.
14) Walls display tomorrow's aspirations and yesterday's accomplishments.

Both motivate and give you momentum
15) Simplify systems. Constantly.
16) Add "We are thoughtful in all we do" to corporate values list.

This is one of the highest values for customer loyalty and employee satisfaction.

17) Celebrate success!

Celebrate and reward success.

18) Manage your calendar religiously

Does it accurately reflect your priorities?19) Cultivate and Advisor/Sounding Board

Cultivate one advisor/sounding board whose role is to tell you the truth. Regularly!
20) Commit to Excellence.

21) Put "Excellence in all we do" in the values set and measure everyone on demonstrated commitment to Excellence.

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