Tag: business strategy

The Playbook

I build coloring books for executives.

That used to be the line I would say when people asked me what I do.

Saying this was a lighthearted way to put management consulting (MC), but a more energizing description might be to change the word “coloring” with “play.”

At the end of the day, the majority of the MC work I do is related to strategy and building out these playbooks.

Just as coaches look to their players, so do executives/managers look to their employees to get the job done.

Often while the game of business is being played, the players/employees will step off to the sidelines and ask “what’s next.” The coach then pulls out his playbook to decide the upcoming course of action. Sometimes its in defensive mode (playing to respond to competition), other times on offense (playing to differentiate/innovate in the marketplace). And sometimes he decides to throw out the playbook and call an audible.

But at the end of the day, every coach has a playbook. Even if he doesn’t know it. And you do too.

Companies –> Houses

I’ve had the good fortune of living with some awesome people over the years. Whenever we move in together, whether it be a dorm, an apartment, or a house, there is the knowledge that its temporary. This knowledge does not change the fact that each of us want the place to be as fun and exciting as possible. From the day we move in, to the day we move out, we want to challenge and grow with each other to become better versions of ourselves.

This is how I think companies should act. Companies are houses for individuals that they can join and grow. Yes, money is needed, (How can you pay for the mortgage, new volleyball net, or team trip to the beach without it?) but it should not be the primary purpose. The growth of the individuals should be the primary focus, for when the house/room mates are growing, the overall place/company is as well.

Just as living situations and roommates are temporary, so should companies understand that employees will not stay forever. And that is ok. When roommates have moved out, there is no question of loyalty. They are on to bigger and better things, and so are you. You may reconnect with them at the old or a new house, but then again you may not. Overall, you know that you/them are better off having lived together in that house, for that particular time in your life.

If we start treating companies similarly to our houses, we may find that employees turn into friends, and those friends will end up making more money for the company (during their stay at the house) than any normal employee would.