Paper, Pencil, and a Strategic Map

I’m working on MAP – Stage 4 - of the GLEAMS Process for a client. This is the stage where I create the strategic growth map that I turn over to the client. It’s an exciting part of the process for me. By this time, we’ve done the hard work. I know your growth goals, where you’re stepping up your leadership, which processes and foundational mechanics need tweaking, and what needs to be developed to support your growth.

 When I create the strategic growth map, I start with a blank piece of paper and a pencil. I know, old school!✏️. 

 I take a moment to get grounded and centered and might even pull a dragon card.

 Then I start playing! I use the word “playing” because putting all of the pieces together is like a fun puzzle for me. Strategic growth maps are created with tasks and milestones over the next 12 months that will guide you to your next level of growth.

 I start with the big events. Whether they are launches, live events, or webinars I assign them a start date. Then, I identify the milestones that need to be accomplished to reach those results.

 The milestones are different for every client. Some need to put foundational pieces in place. I’ve worked with mid-six-figure clients who need consistency around foundational items like email or social media, that will increase the business’s efficiency and effectiveness.

 Some clients need to create lead magnets to continually bring new people to their list, along with a system to track their success. The milestone can feel very basic.

Growth often requires revisiting the basics and getting the little pieces that have fallen to the side or have stopped working efficiently and effectively again.   

 A milestone may also involve creating a completely new funnel system or making shifts in your team. Having the right team members in place is crucial for growth. Some members may have served you well in previous iterations of the business but may not have the skill sets to support your next growth phase.

 Once I’ve identified the milestones and big events, I create an estimated timeline around them. Now you have a map that lays out what you need to move to your next growth phase. There is more that goes into creating a comprehensive map, but this gives you a basic idea of what a strategic growth map contains.

Your map provides a common reference and center point for you and your team. The strategic growth map gives you the next steps and serves as the central guide you’ll return to throughout the year. With the map, you have the flexibility to adjust the plan; you can slow down if something takes longer than expected, or accelerate if things move more quickly. Either action is okay as long as you’re moving forward.

The map is your home base to return to if you get off track. It gives you everything you need as you move into the  Support stage of the GLEAMS Process.