It’s bank and credit union strategic planning season! And boy does Shawn Temple (our Chief Strategy Officer) know it.
Shawn’s nearly two-month-long strategic planning tour is taking him to institutions across the country…and he’s making great use of the time. Besides helping financial organizations tackle future challenges, he is also producing a frequent “Same Luggage, New Lessons” LinkedIn series.
Part travelogue, part strategic wisdom – this series has great tidbits for anyone honing their strategy right now.
Here are the top five tips from Shawn’s Strategic Planning American Odyssey.
- Strategy is like songwriting (Tennessee): A musical hit doesn’t happen by accident…even in Nashville. It takes vision, skill and execution by the right combination of instrumentation and vocals. Your strategy is similar. Successful plans don’t happen without foresight, a diverse team offering their perspectives and the implementation of your plan.
- Wide-open spaces and wide-open minds (Wyoming): Beautiful Wyoming is full of open spaces that invite exploration and adventure. Is your strategic planning mindset like that? Or are you closed off? Remain openminded during your session, because the next great idea might come from the least expected place.
- Uncover your hidden energy (Texas): The discovery of “black gold” under the ground originally built the economies of some Texas towns. This is energy people uncovered rather than created. There are missed opportunities in your organization right now. What are they? Strategic planning isn’t always about doing something new. Sometimes, it’s about discovering what’s already there – overlooked efficiencies, underrecognized managerial superstars or brand potential ready to burst forth if you strike the right spot.
- Creating flow and connections (Minnesota): The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are one of the many thoroughfares of the Mississippi River, continuing to flow amidst the busy urban landscape. Nearby, the Mall of America is abuzz with constant connection and communication. Your strategic planning depends on a constant flow of communication and connection. When people shut down or play politics, the plan shuts down. Disagreement and conflict must lead to greater strategic alignment, pushing you forward rather than pumping the brakes.
- Don’t just maintain…elevate (New York): Albany is a historic city with an ever-growing skyline. Leading your organization requires both a respect for your history and a vision for the future. The best leaders never simply maintain, doing what’s always been done. No – they elevate the people, the processes and the planning to uplift the organization. Complacency is not a winning formula. Take risks. Remember: the biggest risk is taking none at all.
Book a free consultation with On The Mark Strategies and put these lessons into action for your own bank or credit union strategic planning session. Don’t wait on it…people are already booking dates!
