We all have preferences on how we approach work, but which thinking style is the best for your current and future role in your organization?

Strategic thinkers focus on the big picture…the overall plan to achieve the organization’s goals.  Tactical thinkers focus on methods used to implement the intended strategy.  Strategic thinkers and tactical thinkers must work together for successful goal accomplishment.

“Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.” ~Sun Tzu Ancient Chinese Military strategist

Have you ever been told that you should be thinking more strategically but were not sure what that meant or what you should be doing differently? Review the comparison list of 12 areas describing differences in tactical and strategic thinking below to determine your typical approach at work.

 

Tactical Thinking   Strategic Thinking
Implementation Focus Overall Plan Focus
Short Term Thinking Long Term Thinking
Focus on Actions to Achieve Plan Focus on the Destination
Develops Ideas Separately Integrates Ideas
Collects Information Gains Insight from Information
Thinks Sequentially Thinks Holistically
Focus on The Yearly Plan Scan Horizon for Future Trends
Maintain Status Quo Challenge Current Mindsets
Precise Decision Making Agile Decision Making
Avoid Conflict Engage in Productive Conflict
Risk Averse Risk Tolerant
Asks “How” Asks “What If”
“Strategic Thinking helps to bridge between where you are and where you want to be.” ~ Pearl Zhu, author Content goes here

The best way to determine if your thinking style fits your current and future role in the organization is to have a discussion with your manager and ask for feedback.  The beginning of the year is a perfect time to discuss your career goals and create a development plan.

We would enjoy partnering with you to achieve your leadership development training goals. http://managementskillsinc.com/workshops/leadership-workshops/ Or contact us at:  Deborah.Avrin@ManagementSkillsinc.com  972 881-5282.

Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season