Combining data-driven insights with empathy-based understanding allows leaders to not only develop the “right” fact-based approach but also to embrace the human side of strategy. This approach enables leaders to gain the buy-in, commitment, and alignment required to ensure that strategies are not only well-crafted but embraced and executed upon effectively.
The way people interpret and process facts is inherently individual. Taking the time to understand human perspectives and motivations is a powerful step to understanding where people are coming from when reacting to data – what are their motivations, concerns, and perceptions of the facts – and how their perceptions will shape the development of a successful strategy.
As a leader, how can I harness the human side of strategy?
Purposeful engagement and active listening help to effectively engage teams and build upon the insights from facts and data. At Level5, our approach is underpinned by four fundamental elements that help to build commitment, buy-in, and excitement in our client’s strategic plans…
Building Trust
Building trust is fundamental to leveraging the human element in strategy development. This starts early on with one-on-one conversations with key team members to ensure their perspectives are understood. This provides a forum to be heard and fosters a collaborative dynamic, laying the foundation for a trusting engagement. Over time, consistently asking for input from team members reinforces that their views are valued and considered, even when all their individual perspectives may not be incorporated in the end result. Being heard and considered is an important part of ensuring that team members trust the strategy’s direction and are committed to it.
Understanding Individual Motivations
In upfront conversations and throughout planning, it is important to understand what drives each key team member – their motivations, their ambitions, and their fears. Understanding motivations ensures that the strategy development process can harness, or if needed, mitigate individual expectations or concerns. By addressing individual motivations, you can create a strategy that resonates deeply and drives effective execution.
Observing Non-Verbal Cues
Observing non-verbal cues is key to understanding a team’s perspectives, especially when facilitating crucial conversations and making difficult strategic choices. Body language, tone, and facial reactions provide insight into how individuals are reacting to the building blocks of a strategy. By paying attention to these cues, leaders can gauge emotional energy and actively address any concerns or resistance, ultimately reducing hurdles to achieving alignment and commitment in the end.
Addressing Broader Personal Implications
Addressing the personal impact of a strategy helps build team buy-in. Individuals often wonder how a new strategy will affect their workload, job security, and roles. Leaders should clearly communicate the strategy’s impact on the organization and teams and address any concerns upfront. Being transparent and considerate of personal implications helps leaders alleviate anxiety and create a supportive environment where the strategy is embraced and executed effectively.
Building upon data and facts by embracing the human side of strategy is essential for fostering commitment and enabling effective execution. Teams that can see themselves in their organization’s strategy are significantly more driven to bring that strategy to life. It’s harnessing the power of your people that makes the difference.
At Level5 Strategy, an award-winning boutique management consulting firm trusted by leading organizations, we help businesses navigate challenges in strategic alignment
with the right tools and insights. Whether you’re exploring our unique approach to gain commitment and buy-in from leaders or looking to learn more about the human side of strategy, our experienced team delivers the solutions and hands-on support needed to drive lasting success. For more expert perspectives on strategy development, explore our latest thinking or connect with our consultants.
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