2021 Business Planning Process
Click here to view and download this month's tool.
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"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results." – Albert Einstein
As we look ahead to a new year we hope you too are experiencing a sense of hope and optimism as we anticipate fresh possibilities and embrace new opportunities. 2020 was perhaps what we can best describe as a never ending obstacle course. We were challenged to employ extraordinary leadership in the face of complete uncertainty moment by moment.
Recently, our Team took a few days to step away to reflect on 2020 and map our 2021 objectives and quarterly goals. We asked ourselves “why is this important?” and “how does this process make a difference?”
Maybe you’re asking yourselves the same question.
We came to the agreement that the Planning Process isn’t just about doing the same thing over and over again; making a plan, agreeing on it and revisiting it again in November of 2021.
No – the purpose of planning is to shift!
We’re shifting our behaviors and actions ever so slightly and/or significantly from what we’re already doing to create a new and positive pathway forward. If we don’t shift, we won’t change and, if we don’t change, there is a significant chance we won’t grow and achieve different results.
As you and your Team Members determine how you’re going to plan for and shift in 2021, we recommend you create a Plan for the Plan to ensure you and your Team think through all aspects of the annual Business Planning Process. We recommend the following phases be included in the Plan for the Plan:
Phase I: Map the Planning Process
Phase II: Conduct Stakeholder Needs and Gap Analysis
Phase III: Identify Priorities and Align with Annual Operating Budget, Benchmarks, Revenue and Profitability Goals
Phase IV: Implement Organization-wide Communication and Integration Plan
Phase V: Assess, Adapt and Adjust Relentlessly and Consistently
It is critical to ensure a follow up process, appropriate metrics and measurement protocols are in place. For example, will your Team meet monthly or quarterly to review the results, make adjustments and ensure everyone is on track?
You can use the Project Planning Template from October’s Tool of the Month to break down those finer and more detailed action items as you create your Plan for the Plan.
The planning process is more critical now more than ever as we look ahead to the future. Remember Stephen Covey said, “Begin with the end in mind.”
We encourage you to get started at the beginning so you will end with the outcomes and different results you desire and retain your sanity!
RESOURCE
Delta’s Rules of the Road
A great example of companywide
communication specific to sharing the intersection of values and metrics across the footprint.
Coming 2021!
The Keystone
Professional Course
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
(Rescheduled from original date of Wednesday, January 20, 2021)
What is it?
A one-day virtual learning experience for Professional and Corporate Support Team Members
What's the application?
This six hour course will enable Participants to develop their professional skills, identify core executive administrative principles and practice key support techniques and concepts.
What concepts will be included?
Project Management, Communication Etiquette, Professional Courtesies, Setting and Managing Expectations, Confidentiality, Emotional Intelligence
Can you tell me more?
Absolutely, for more information or to register,
email Katie Williamson at katie@lauraschanz.com.
You can also click here to view and download the flier.
Facilitators:
Erica Moe [The Conductor]
Katie Williamson [Master of Smooth Operations]