Do These 4 Things Before You Start Your Strategic Plan!

How to prep for your strategic plan

 

View Slides

Ready to take your business or organization to the next level?

At Pregame, we know that a solid strategic plan isn’t just about setting big-picture goals – it’s about laying out the play-by-play to achieve them.

If you’re ready to start the strategic planning process, here are four essential steps to ensure success:

1. Start from the End

Think of your plan as a marathon: you need to know your finish line before you begin. Define your target date and work backward to map out each phase. This approach creates a clear timeline and keeps you focused on the big goal while tracking all the milestones along the way.

2. Drop the Baggage

Strategic planning often comes with a history – the missteps, the detours, and the obstacles that haunted past efforts. Acknowledge these so they don’t creep into your new plan. Start fresh with a clear vision, and remember: this process is designed to get you on track, not to dwell on past challenges.

3. Get Buy-In from the Team

For your plan to succeed, everyone on the team – leadership included – must be on board. Without alignment, even the best-laid plans can lose momentum. Gather the decision-makers, share your vision, and ensure everyone sees the value in this roadmap for your organization’s success.

 4. Invest for Impact

A strategic plan is an investment in your organization’s future. When selecting a facilitator or consultant, don’t just look for the lowest bid – focus on the impact they can deliver. A well-designed plan can boost profitability, improve employee satisfaction, and unlock new opportunities for growth. Choose a partner who understands your unique needs and can deliver a plan that’s actionable and impactful.

Strategic planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach, you can create a game plan that brings your mission to life and sets a clear path toward your goals. Follow these steps, commit to the process, and watch your team rally behind a vision that’s grounded in purpose and practicality.

Explore Pregame’s 5 Levels of Strategic Planning