The 5 P's of Strategy

There's a saying, "Those who fail to plan, plan to fail." Sometimes the deafening noise of deadlines, packed calendars, and competing responsibilities, both professional and personal. The busy schedules can pull your attention away from necessary planning and soon you'll find yourself and your team, simply reacting to fires that need to extinguished.

However, here is a 5-point perspective framework to help leaders deepen their approach to planning. These five perspectives, introduced by Henry Mintzberg, a professor and author of business and management books, offer different lenses through which to view your strategy:

• Plan: A deliberate course of action designed to achieve specific goals.

• Ploy: A specific maneuver intended to outsmart competitors or overcome challenges.

• Pattern: The consistency in behavior over time, whether intentional or not.

• Position: How your organization situates itself in the market or community.

• Perspective: The ingrained way of perceiving the world, shaping your culture and approach.

  
  

For instance, a nonprofit might have a plan to expand services, a ploy to partner with local businesses for funding, a pattern of community engagement, a position as a trusted local resource, and a perspective rooted in inclusivity and empowerment.

By reflecting on these P’s, you can ensure your strategy is well-rounded and adaptable.

Practical Tips to Keep Your Strategy Alive and Thriving

It’s one thing to write a strategy document, but quite another to see it come alive in your daily work. Here are some practical tips I’ve found invaluable:

• Communicate Regularly

Keep your team updated on progress and challenges. Celebrate wins, no matter how small.

• Use Visual Tools

Charts, dashboards, and infographics can make complex information easier to digest and share.

• Build Flexibility In

The world changes fast. Your strategy should be flexible enough to adapt without losing sight of your core mission.

• Invest in Leadership Development 

Strong leaders at every level help keep the strategy on track and inspire others to contribute.

• Leverage Technology

Tools like project management software can streamline tracking and collaboration.

Imagine a business that holds monthly “strategy huddles” where teams share updates and brainstorm solutions. This simple habit keeps everyone aligned and motivated.

Motivational Muse is here to give you the inspiration and guidance you need. Executive Coaching for leaders in in the for profit and non profit fields is available. If you have any questions, scroll down to find the contact form!