What do you do if your executives lack strategic thinking skills?

1 Assess Skills

Begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your executives' strategic thinking abilities. You can use performance reviews, 360-degree feedback, or specialized assessment tools to identify specific areas where improvement is needed. This will help you understand the extent of the gap in strategic thinking skills and tailor a development plan that addresses these particular weaknesses. Remember, the goal is to pinpoint the precise areas where your executives may be struggling, whether it's in long-term planning, risk management, or decision-making.

2 Provide Training

Once you've identified the gaps, consider implementing targeted training programs. Look for workshops, seminars, or courses focused on strategic thinking and planning. These programs should challenge your executives to think beyond day-to-day operations and consider the bigger picture. Effective training often includes case studies, simulation exercises, and group discussions that encourage participants to apply new strategies in a controlled environment before taking them back to the workplace.

3 Encourage Mentorship

Mentorship is a powerful tool for personal development. Pair your executives with mentors who excel in strategic thinking. These mentors can provide guidance, share experiences, and offer advice on navigating complex business landscapes. Through regular meetings and discussions, your executives can gain insights into the thought processes of seasoned strategists, helping them to refine their own approach to strategic challenges.

4 Foster Collaboration

Promote a collaborative environment where executives can share ideas and insights with their peers. Encourage them to participate in cross-functional teams or task forces that work on strategic projects. This exposure to different perspectives and areas of the business can enhance their understanding of how various parts of the organization contribute to its overall strategy. Collaborative efforts often lead to innovative solutions and a more cohesive strategic approach.

6 Create Opportunities

Lastly, give your executives opportunities to practice strategic thinking in real-world scenarios. Assign them to lead projects that require a strategic approach or involve them in long-term planning initiatives. The experience of dealing with actual business challenges and opportunities can be one of the most effective ways to sharpen strategic thinking skills. As they apply what they've learned in training and coaching sessions, they'll develop greater confidence and proficiency in their strategic roles.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?