Get the most out of your Inc. online experience by registering and joining the Inc. community today. Get access to all Inc.com content and priority invites to free Inc. networking events in your area.

Login using:


Or login directly through Inc.com

The Need for Speed

Keith McFarland says he can draft a new strategic plan in just 48 hours. Here's how:

By Darren Dahl | 
 

1.Assign Homework

Ask participants to outline key opportunities and challenges before the strategy sessions begin.

2.Stay Focused

Ban cell phones and BlackBerrys and keep breaks to a minimum.

3.Watch the Clock

Set time limits for goal-setting exercises--but refuse to adjourn meetings until a consensus is reached.

4.Lighten Up

McFarland conducts sessions bare-foot, and livens proceedings by showing clips from films like Caddyshack.

5.Keep At It

The first 48 hours are only the beginning. Strategic goals should be revisited every 90 days.

Related Content

Ready, Set, Strategize

Strategic planning is time-consuming and labor-intensive, right? Not necessarily. One consultant says he can craft a bold new action plan in just 48 hours.

Read more:

  • Why Flexible Hours Inspire Performance
  • Spur Your Brain to Innovate
  • 2 Factors That Define Great Leaders

    • Sign-up for our Leadership and Managing Newsletter