Preparing for tommorrow when we are swamped today

There are always challenges in business finding the right balance between the urgent things that need our attention today and preparing for where we have to go tomorrow. Those businesses that are working through snow storms while they need to get everything ready for spring. The Great Companies are those that can drive the short term outcomes that have to be hit today while keeping their eyes on where they are going. Here are a few things that you could keep on your radar screen to keep your team focused:

• Insure that each member of the team has a clear picture of their top five priorities
• Determine what the specific goals will be in preparing for spring
• Establish the deadlines that have to be hit
• Have an action plan place so that everyone knows how they get it done
• Insure that we have processes in place for each of the key areas
• Determine the metrics that you will utilize to assess your progress
• Proactively communicate how we are doing along the way
• Provide just in time feedback and coaching to each employee

It would be interesting to grade our readiness in each area. Let us know if we missed any of the elements that you are focused upon as you prepare for spring.

Bob Coulter