So why should I give a damn about strategy?

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I like to take a humorous approach to things on occasion; life [and business] can be extremely serious betimes, particularly in these more arduous economic days.

I've written, and continue to write countless blogs and articles on the subject of strategy, messaging and other  SME-related development issues.  However, I'm all-too aware that for many business people, given the many demands of business, it's a perceived waste of time or not worthwhile considering for their business.

On occasion, when I meet SME / micro-enterprise owners for mentoring / advisory meetings, the stock answer to strategy / communications queries [from me] - is "how will that make a difference?" or "sure, that wouldn't work in my business".  The reality is, a business strategy is a non-negotiable, whether you're running a food business from home, or about to establish a groundbreaking new technology company.

Don't use excuses... you've got to make time to grow, to evaluate potential and to remain, at all times, aware of opportunities.  Strategy underpins all these objectives, and keeps you, your team and any other key people 'on message' and tuned in to what it is you're setting out to do.

Begin with a straightforward 'mapping' exercise... starting with where the business is now [or "as is"] versus the projected 'what good looks like' of your business.  Now, that wasn't so scary? 

Map out goals, key people, timelines and 'checkpoints'... be realistic, but stretch yourself too...

... and hey, presto, you've just started to build a strategy.  Giving you clarity, focus and direction.  It wasn't that bad after all, now was it?