Strategic Priorities:
From Awareness to Alignment
A prominent non-profit, with assets over $65 million and a team of nearly 200 dedicated individuals, wasn't just seeking alignment. They desired a profound connection between their strategic vision and the daily endeavors of every team member.
“Initially, I'll admit, I was a bit lost. All this talk about strategic priorities felt distant from my day-to-day tasks. It seemed like just another layer of complexity. But with these workbooks, it's like a fog has lifted. I now see how my role fits into the bigger picture, and it's made collaborating with other departments so much smoother. I understand our shared goals, and it's honestly made my job easier and more meaningful.”
— Staff Member
From I Think I Can to
I Know I Can.
Four years prior, the organization set forth their strategic priorities. These were crafted with insights from staff, executives, and the board of directors. But as time passed, the initial enthusiasm waned. The real challenge was ensuring sustained engagement and making every employee feel connected to the broader mission. Much like the determined little engine from the classic tale, this organization was on a journey of self-belief, pushing past challenges and affirming, "I know I can."
A Valuable Toolkit
Recognizing the diverse needs within the organization, we developed four distinct workbooks:
Understanding Our Strategic Priorities: A foundational guide, shedding light on the organization's core objectives.
Departments: Designed to align departments with the organization's strategic priorities.
Teams: Focused on the dynamics within teams, emphasizing collective thought, empathy, and innovation.
Individuals: Aimed at helping each member understand and resonate with their unique contributions.
Deliverables
Narrative Workbooks: Customized for Departments, Teams, and Individuals.
Guided Journeys: Tools for introspection and alignment.
Strategic Maps: Instruments to ensure alignment from top to bottom.
Change Chronicles: Strategies and tools for smooth transitions and adaptations.
Eye of the Tiger
With this approach, the organization found a structured way to set and track goals. Every task and milestone became a step towards the organization's overarching vision. The alignment was not just on paper; it resonated with the mission and vision at every level.
Every Player,
One Pitch
In every corner of the world I've journeyed, the universal thread of connection has been unmistakable. It's not just about aligning goals; it's about weaving stories, crafting connections. Much like a game of fútbol, where players with diverse backgrounds and skillsets come together, their collective efforts are focused on succeeding as a team and winning the match. Similarly, my approach aimed to bring every individual together, harmonizing their roles and contributions towards a shared vision.
“As a board member, I've encountered various alignment strategies. What sets this one apart is its effectiveness in deeply connecting every team member to our broader mission, thereby streamlining processes and amplifying our collective drive.”
— Board Member