Written by Mykella Auld, Leadership and Culture Coach
Mykella Auld, M.Ed., is a pioneering thought leader in organizational culture and leadership. As the Founder and Executive Coach of Culture and leadership at The Work Well Studio, she propels organizations toward psychologically safe, equitable cultures prioritizing well-being and belonging.
In the current entrepreneurial landscape, where the rate of new business creation is unprecedented, having a strong strategic foundation is more important than ever. To both stay competitive and grow their businesses entrepreneurs must prioritize and invest in tools and knowledge to develop and implement a business strategy.
I have been reflecting on the increase in first time entrepreneurs, startups, and small business launches in the last two years.
As a member of this group, it occurs to me that many of us have faced similar challenges and shared experiences. We’ve navigated uncertainty, embraced innovation, and persevered through the unique trials of launching a business in a rapidly changing world.
Last year in the U.S., more than 5.4 million new businesses were started, a 37 percent increase over the fourth quarter of 2019 (Center for American Progress Action Fund, 2024).
The number of startups surged in 2022 and 2023, surpassing pre-Great Recession levels for the first time.
Clearly, the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the U.S. and this boom shows no sign of slowing down.
But with this growth there is an increased need to support entrepreneurs in building successful and sustainable businesses.
One of the most critical elements in transforming a fledgling idea into a thriving enterprise is strategic planning. Strategy is the backbone of any growing business, providing a clear roadmap to guide decisions, allocate resources effectively, and navigate the competitive landscape.
Without one, it's easy for a startup to get off track and waste valuable resources. It's important to have a well-thought-out plan that outlines your goals, target audience, and how you plan to achieve them.
A robust strategy does several things
1. Clarity and focus
A strategic plan provides clarity on the business's goals and objectives. It helps entrepreneurs stay focused on their mission, avoiding distractions and ensuring that every action taken is aligned with the overall vision. This focus is crucial in a competitive market where resources are often limited.
2. Resource allocation
Effective strategy helps in the optimal allocation of resources. By identifying priorities, entrepreneurs can allocate their time, money, and efforts to the areas that will yield the highest returns. This ensures that resources are not wasted on initiatives that do not contribute to the business's growth.
3. Risk management
Every business faces risks, but a strategic plan can help anticipate and mitigate these risks. By analyzing potential challenges and developing contingency plans, entrepreneurs can navigate uncertainties with greater confidence and resilience.
4. Competitive advantage
A well-crafted strategy enables businesses to identify and leverage their unique strengths. By understanding their competitive landscape and positioning themselves effectively, startups can differentiate themselves from competitors and attract their target market.
5. Adaptability and growth
The business environment is constantly evolving. A strategic plan provides a framework for adapting to changes and seizing new opportunities. It allows entrepreneurs to be proactive rather than reactive, ensuring that their business remains relevant and continues to grow.
How to build a strategic planning
In the current entrepreneurial landscape, where the rate of new business creation is unprecedented, having a strong strategic foundation is more important than ever. Entrepreneurs must equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to develop and implement effective strategies that will ensure their businesses not only survive but thrive.
For those ready to invest in the future and growth of their business, the 12-Week Strategic Design Course for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners is an invaluable resource. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of strategic design principles and practical experience in applying them. Participants will learn how to analyze data, identify opportunities, and create innovative solutions, ultimately developing their own three-year strategic plan.
The surge in entrepreneurship is a testament to our collective drive and ambition. By embracing strategic planning, we can turn our visions into realities.
Ready to take the next step? Help drive organizational innovation with a customized leadership and culture strategy for your organization using our research backed models. Available leadership coaching, culture audits, culture strategy development, and equity and belong framework design to contribute to the overall thriving of individuals and communities. Mykella invites readers to join her in making 2024 the year of personal and professional well-being.
Mykella Auld, Leadership and Culture Coach
Mykella Auld, M.Ed., is a pioneering thought leader in organizational culture and leadership. As the Founder and Executive Coach of Culture and leadership at The Work Well Studio, she propels organizations toward psychologically safe, equitable cultures prioritizing well-being and belonging. A culture strategist and equity advocate, Mykella, empowers organizations through critical thinking and relationship-building. Rooted in her experience as a lead researcher and author, on best practices in practical applications for Trauma-Informed and Anti-Racist social emotional development. She is committed to sparking transformative change.
