Taking a Strategic & Lateral Approach

Here are some suggestions for how you can enhance your skills in the leadership behaviours of Taking a Strategic & Lateral Approach:

• Having a strategic leadership approach is essential for an effective leader, so it is something that will be worthwhile investing time in. Consider how you can delegate some of your day-to-day activities, so that you can find the time to develop your strategy and strategic skills. Use such delegation thoughtfully, so as to develop a colleague by widening opportunities for learning, and empowering them to take increased responsibility
• Set a regular time aside for strategic planning, making it a ‘normal’ part of your job. Involve others when necessary.
• Search for relevant and broad business information that will help you start thinking strategically.
• Try and identify someone you regard as highly strategic to act as a mentor to support you through your journey of becoming a strategic leader.
• All problems are different, to a greater or lesser extent. However, adopting a standard approach to problem solving may help you become more comfortable in and skilled at resolving complex problems. There are various models of problem solving, such as the ‘IDEAL’ model of problem solving:
  – Identify the problem
  – Define the problem
  – Examine the options
  – Act on a plan
  – Look at the consequences
• Research the different models available and start applying the one that makes the most sense to you for a particular problem you are currently experiencing. Try and think laterally and creatively about the solutions. Once you have found the right model for you, try and take this approach as a matter of routine. Make a note of the impact you feel it is having on your problem solving ability.
• Approach someone you regard as an effective problem solver for help, advice and feedback in this area.