The ultimate objective of HLp’s Strategic Planning “Get-A-Way” is to develop a unified focus within the organization. Typically, a company’s Mission Statement and Strategic Plan are tucked away in some very expensive binders or simply on the inside cover of the employee’s handbook.

My approach is different. 50 – 150 management and key associates work for 2 days to create (or edit) an inspirational Mission Statement. Then, as a group, they chose the 5 Strategic Points of Difference from a list of 25 alternatives. These Points of Difference will be rolled out to every member of the organization in the weeks and months that follow.

One of the by-products of the 2-day “Get-A-Way” is the establishment of strategic committees; one for each of the 5 Points of Difference. These committees meet monthly to continue to develop the programs that will bring the 5 Points of Difference to life at store level. They will also establish benchmarks and measurement mechanisms to monitor progress; like a mystery shopper program measures customer service.

Annually, these committees will have a one day reunion. During this reunion, each committee will present a progress report to the entire group along with their goals for the next 12 months.