What are the steps to design successful strategic planning sessions with senior leaders?

2 Identify the stakeholders

The next step is to identify the stakeholders who need to be involved in the session. Who are the decision-makers, influencers, and experts who have a stake in the strategic issues and outcomes? How can you ensure a balanced representation of perspectives, roles, and functions? How can you engage the stakeholders before, during, and after the session to gain their input, feedback, and commitment? By identifying the stakeholders, you can design the session to meet their needs, interests, and preferences, and foster a collaborative and inclusive environment.

3 Design the agenda

The third step is to design the agenda for the session, based on the purpose, outcomes, and stakeholders. What are the key topics or themes that the session should cover? How much time should be allocated for each topic or activity? What are the best methods and tools to facilitate the discussion, analysis, and decision-making? How can you structure the agenda to create a logical flow, a clear focus, and a dynamic pace? By designing the agenda, you can plan the content, format, and timing of the session, and prepare the materials and resources needed.

4 Prepare the participants

The fourth step is to prepare the participants for the session, by providing them with relevant information, guidance, and expectations. What are the background and context of the strategic issues and objectives? What are the pre-work or homework assignments that the participants need to complete or review before the session? What are the roles and responsibilities of the participants during the session? How can you motivate and inspire the participants to contribute actively and constructively? By preparing the participants, you can increase their readiness, confidence, and engagement for the session.

5 Facilitate the session

The fifth step is to facilitate the session, by leading and supporting the participants through the agenda and activities. How can you create a positive and productive atmosphere, where the participants feel comfortable, respected, and valued? How can you manage the group dynamics, such as conflicts, disagreements, or distractions? How can you encourage participation, creativity, and consensus among the participants? How can you monitor the progress, quality, and outcomes of the session? By facilitating the session, you can ensure that the session runs smoothly, effectively, and efficiently.

6 Follow up on the session

The final step is to follow up on the session, by documenting and communicating the results and actions of the session. What are the key insights, findings, and decisions that emerged from the session? What are the next steps, responsibilities, and timelines for implementing the strategic plan? How can you solicit feedback and evaluation from the participants on the session? How can you celebrate and acknowledge the achievements and contributions of the participants? By following up on the session, you can reinforce the learnings, commitments, and accountability of the participants, and sustain the momentum and impact of the strategic plan.

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?