*STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP*

Question 1

Strategic Leadership

Strategic Skill

(Shoemaker, Krupp and Howland)

Answer 1

1. Learning from failures:

• Study failures in an open & constructive way in order to find hidden lessons
  
  • Create a culture in which inquiry is valued and mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities

2. Anticipation:

• Pick up signals from both inside and outside of the organization
• Detecting threats and business opportunities
  
  • Talk to customers, clients and other partners to understand their challenges
  • Conduct market research and business simulation

3. Ability to interpret:

• Recognize patterns, seek new insights
  
  • Zoom in and out of the details to see the big picture
  • Distance yourself to maintain an open mind
  • Leader as a communicator

4. Ability to align:

• Be adept at finding common ground, active outreach, trust building
  
  • Communicate early and often to combat complaints
  • Counteract misunderstandings or resistance by structured conversations

5. Ability to decide:

• When facing a decision consider the relevant trade-offs, also the short-term and longterm consequences of your actions
  
  • Let your colleagues consult (other possible options)
  • Divide decision and make staged commitments

6. Ability to challenge:

• Question the status quo and encourage divergent points, which requires patience, courage and an open mind
  
  • Promote debate by holding safe-zone meetings
  • Create a challenging environment

7. Convey strategic intent:

• Set goals and communicate them, avoid micro-management