What are the best strategies to align your time management with your company's strategic plan?

1 Understand the strategic plan

The first step is to understand what your company's strategic plan is, why it exists, and how it affects your role and responsibilities. A strategic plan is a document that outlines the company's mission, vision, values, goals, and initiatives for a specific period. It also describes the external and internal factors that influence the company's performance, such as market trends, customer needs, competitors, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. You can access your company's strategic plan through your manager, intranet, or website. Read it carefully and ask questions if you need clarification.

2 Align your goals with the strategic plan

The next step is to align your personal and professional goals with the strategic plan. This means that you should set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goals that support the company's objectives and values. For example, if your company's strategic plan aims to increase customer satisfaction, you can set a goal to improve your communication skills, respond to feedback, or deliver quality products or services. You can use a tool like OKR (Objectives and Key Results) to track and measure your progress.

3 Plan your time according to the strategic plan

The third step is to plan your time according to the strategic plan. This means that you should allocate your time and resources to the tasks and projects that contribute the most to the strategic plan. You can use a tool like Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize your activities based on urgency and importance. You can also use a tool like Gantt Chart to visualize your schedule and deadlines. You should also review and update your plan regularly to adapt to any changes or challenges.

4 Communicate your alignment with the strategic plan

The fourth step is to communicate your alignment with the strategic plan. This means that you should share your goals, plans, and results with your manager, team, and other stakeholders. You can use a tool like RACI (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed) to clarify your roles and expectations. You should also seek feedback, advice, and support from others to improve your performance and alignment. You should also celebrate your achievements and recognize others who help you.

5 Learn from the strategic plan

The fifth step is to learn from the strategic plan. This means that you should reflect on your experience and outcomes, and identify what worked well and what needs improvement. You can use a tool like SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) to analyze your strengths and weaknesses, and explore new opportunities and threats. You should also use a tool like PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, and Act) to implement changes and solutions.

6 Align your time management with your company's strategic plan

Aligning your time management with your company's strategic plan is a powerful way to enhance your productivity, performance, and satisfaction. By following these strategies, you can align your actions with your company's goals and vision, and deliver value to your stakeholders. You can also learn and grow from your experience and outcomes, and contribute to your company's success.

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?