Not Enough : Why I will never just email you an agenda before our Quarterly Strategic Planning Session

Picture this: You've just received an email with the agenda for your upcoming Quarterly Strategic Session, and you feel prepared and ready to tackle the issues at hand. But here's the thing—sending you an agenda before our coaching session is not enough, and there's a good reason for it. The truth is, a simple agenda is not enough to ensure a successful and transformative coaching experience. When the clock strikes the top of the hour we are ready to go. The time for warmups and practice is behind us. When we step into session, we’re on the forty-yard line, about to kick a field goal in a tied game. We have one chance to get it right.

Pre-session Preparation: Digging Deeper Together

An agenda is a great starting point, but to maximize the impact of our Quarterly Strategic Planning Session, we need to dig deeper together. Before the session, we'll have a preparatory call so that I can learn what’s working and what’s not working, how the team is doing, and we finalize the Agenda for a great day. 

Next, I ask the leadership team to complete a short 5 minute preparatory survey. This survey will provide valuable insights into your perspective and expectations, allowing me to adjust the agenda for maximum value.

Setting Clear Expectations: Beyond the Agenda

While an agenda outlines the topics we'll cover, setting clear expectations goes beyond that. By establishing these expectations ahead of time, we can enter the session with a shared understanding of its purpose and goals. This clarity will help foster open communication and a productive atmosphere, ultimately leading to better results.

The Art of Flexibility

For every Quarterly Planning Session we’re always more objective driven then agenda driven. Although it may feel great, it’s just not about checking boxes on a list. If we need to call an audible and go deeper into certain areas or topics even though they may not be the on the agenda, then we will do that.  Every session is personalized and about meeting the team where they are at.

Energy Management

The success of Quarterly Planning Sessions is heavily influenced by the team’s energy level, attitude, and focus. Addressing factors such as being overwhelmed and suffering external distractions is crucial to maintaining a positive and productive atmosphere. Together, we'll create an environment of focus and engagement, ensuring that the session yields maximum results. After all, a high-energy session is bound to be more interesting and enjoyable for you and your team. 

Much like professional athletes, business owners like you must approach coaching sessions with discipline and dedication. Just as a football player arrives early to the field to stretch and warm up, the team should be prepared to engage fully and actively in session and bring the energy.

Planning for Quarterly Strategic Planning Sessions: The Heartbeat of Progress

Quarterly strategic planning sessions are critical for maintaining momentum and driving progress. To make the most of these sessions, you should approach them with the same level of preparation and focus as any other coaching session. Together, we'll check the temperature, align priorities, and ensure that these sessions serve as the heartbeat of your organization's progress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while an agenda is a great start, it's not enough to ensure a successful and engaging coaching session. By following the steps outlined in this guide and working together, we can go beyond agenda-setting and create a truly transformative experience. So, let's embrace the power of thorough preparation and watch your organization soar to new heights.