From Loose Groups to Aligned Strategic Teams!

In my book CHUNK, I explain that one-page, over-simplified strategy templates and time-crunched, one-day "retreats" are a waste of time. (Hint: most leaders don't like them!) 

Strategic thinking is a team sport that requires deep thinking as a group, challenging conversations, and expansive retreats. You wrestle with strategic ambiguity just like larger companies. You need real consulting that results in real strategic choices that will be implemented real well; not another  checklist of things to do. I have researched, developed, documented, and helped to implement over 250 real strategic plans in a career spanning four decades. 

Are you ready to get real?

Sometimes, an AEC company's strategic direction is clear, but departments, market teams, or locations are not aligned with the new direction. Their leaders do not know where to start. 

I work with the group leader, and each of his, or her individuals, to understand their strategic direction. We craft their individual Leadership Narratives. Then, we construct their Group Leadership Narrative in a retreat environment. The group feels more tight-knit. Their roles are more clear. The business owner and top leaders gain confidence that they are aligned to a shared leadership mentality. 

In AEC, siloes are a common problem. Be uncommon.

Most U.S. companies know the importance of innovation. But, in the AEC industry, such innovation is hard because projects contain so much risk. Despite the tools and technologies that AEC companies throw at innovation, they invest very little in the most important part of the innovator's work: sustained change. 

Similar to my work with groups, I work directly with the innovation leader (Chief Innovation Officer, Innovation Lead, etc.) and each individual to craft their individual Leadership Narratives. Then, from that platform, we construct their Group Leadership Narrative in a retreat setting. They leave with a new power tool to drive and fully commercialize those innovations.