What Is the Plan?

• The big question here is “What do we do now?” To fulfill your mandate, you need to define specific clear objectives aligned with the mandate. It is vital that conversations result in agreement on the objectives. Otherwise you forge ahead with a plan that people don’t believe in. Don’t take this for granted. Larger objectives often consist of multiple initiatives, which require the same level of buy in. Next you have to deal with timelines, which are often too optimistic if your conversations don’t address what could go wrong. The necessary assets come next. Here the hardest ones to nail down are the human assets that include abilities, mind-sets, information, and relationships. Finally, risk assessment requires a look at short-term identifiable risks where you have some control, and the potential major barriers down the road. (Doug: Using your conversation skills to gain information are more likely to produces success than simply telling people what to do.)

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