You’ve developed great goals. You’ve outlined a structured plan to achieve them. Now the real work begins. Execution. Unsurprisingly, this is when most plans die. Here’s why:
1. Progress isn’t regularly tracked and managed
Plans brought into the spotlight flourish. Plans left in the dark wither. A monthly progress tracking meeting with a crisp agenda sustains focus. Determine what actions have been taken, the progress made, emerging challenges, and who will accomplish what over the next month.
2. The plan isn’t adaptable
Reserve the right to do what makes sense. Plans are based on information and assumptions that can change over time. If they do, the plan may need to change. A quarterly recalibration meeting brings to light what has changed and the implications for the plan.
3. Weak Consequences
How you respond to progress, or lack of progress, goes a long way to determining the success of the plan. A tepid response to either sends the message that the goal really isn’t that important. Clearly differentiate what is acceptable from what isn’t by clearly differentiating your response.
Plans don’t implement themselves. You have to take ownership. Track, adapt and effectively respond.
Your thoughts?
Michael
