Beyond the Boardroom: Creating Strategy Through Co-Creation

Beyond the Boardroom: Creating Strategy Through Co-Creation

In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership and organizational dynamics, the disconnect between strategy and the individuals tasked with executing it poses a persistent challenge. This gap can leave those on the front lines feeling detached from the grand vision, often viewing the strategy as something crafted in the distant halls of the boardroom. Mick Spiers, host of The Leadership Project, delves into this conundrum, exploring the concept of "humanized strategy" as championed by Britt Hogue, the founder of The Collective Good.

A New Perspective on Strategy

Traditionally, strategy conjures images of data-driven plans, PowerPoint slides, and top-down directives focused on achieving quarterly targets. However, Britt invites leaders to reconsider this approach. What if strategy could be more than numbers and objectives? What if it could be rooted in human experience, fostering a deeper connection among all members of an organization? This is what Britt refers to as "humanized strategy"—or as Mick calls it, "strategy with a soul."

The Essence of Humanized Strategy

Humanized strategy doesn't forsake logic in favour of emotion. Rather, it melds the human element with business objectives, advocating for strategy to be a living dialogue rather than a static blueprint. It's about creating a shared story that resonates with each person within the organization, from executives to frontline workers.

Central to this approach is the notion of co-creation. When individuals are invited to contribute to the strategy, they find ownership and alignment with the organizational mission. This is a strategy not merely presented but convened, shaping a collective purpose that everyone can feel a part of.

The Collective Good: A New Horizon

Britt's journey from the corporate world to social enterprises exemplifies the potential of humanized strategy. Working with purpose-led organizations, Britt's The Collective Good focuses on societal impact, drawing strategy not as a rigid imposition but as an emergent property of collaboration. The name itself embodies a dual purpose: working for societal benefit and leveraging a diverse collective of talents to surpass individual capabilities.

Key Takeaways from Britt Hogue

1. Strategy as an Invitation: Strategy should be something people participate in building. A strategy co-created invokes greater commitment and understanding.

   
   

2. The Power of Listening: Strategic success hinges on the ability to listen—truly listen—beyond spoken words to body language, silence, and unarticulated needs. Leaders' presence and attentiveness can redefine strategic directions.

   
   

3. Linking Healing and Strategy: Organizations bear unseen wounds that can impede strategic clarity. Healing these divisions is integral to fostering cohesive and effective strategies. The process of inclusion and co-creation allows for addressing underlying issues, paving the way for genuine strategic clarity.

Reimagining Great Strategy

A compelling strategy transcends mere business objectives, contemplating its broader impact on the world. It articulates a clear vision, outlining what will and won't be pursued. Flexibility to adapt while maintaining core objectives ensures resilience in a changing environment. Critically, a great strategy resonates at a human level—engaging the heart, not just the intellect.

A Call to Action

In his reflection, Mick Spiers challenges leaders to contemplate the soul of their strategy: Who has shaped it? How can more listening, trust, and humanity be woven into its fabric? When strategy genuinely includes people, it becomes a belief we can all share.