Martin Harshberger, a veteran executive and business management consultant, says that developing sustainable growth requires a combination of long-term thinking and conscious daily effort. Furthermore, too often owners and executives spend most of their time involved in the day-to-day activities of the business and not enough time developing and executing a strategic business development strategy. Consequently, Martin developed an in-depth 4-step framework to help CEOs bring together both business development and strategy to create predictability and repeatability in their organization.

 

Episode Highlights:

• Martin Harshberger says many companies don't have a strategic plan.
• And if they do have a strategic plan, they put it in a drawer and don't look at it.
• Martin talks about why change initiatives never take hold.  
• Are strategic plans essential?
• Furthermore, the planning process is actually more valuable than the strategic plan.
• Martin talks about the importance of frequent progress reviews.
• It's important that employees understand the strategic plan and that their performance objectives are tied to the plan.
• Also, many times resources aren’t allocated for with change management initiatives.
• Emily talks about how the shiny object syndrome.
• Then, Martin says the primary purpose of the strategy plan is to decide what not to do.
• Emily asks if budget drive strategy or if strategy drives budget.
• In working with his clients, Martin talks about repeatable business development instead of strategic plans.
• Also, company culture is critical.
• It's important to communicate the role each employee plays in contributing to product development and supporting the customer.
• In other words, they need to know that what they do matters.
• Next, Emily asks Martin recommendations for implementing change successfully. 
• How does a leader get feedback from employees?
• Egos can get in the way of leadership.
• Next Emily talks about the unique challenges of leadership in the federal government.
• Then Martin talks about why more company leaders don't use consultants and coaches.
• Emily and Martin talk about the mindset it takes to be an entrepreneur.
• Martin says he's starting a Mastermind of non-competing CEOs.
• Listening is a key element of being a good leader.
• Martin started hosting "breakfasts with the CEO".
• Next, Martin talks about the books he's written.
• Finally, leaders need to know themselves.

Resources Mentioned: 

• 4 Step Framework to Repeatable Business Development 
• Martin’s Website
• Email Martin: [email protected]
• Martin’s Book: Bottom Line Focus
• Martin’s Book: Conscious Business Development
• Emily Harman
• Mental Fitness Program 
• Onward Accelerator Coaching Program
• Onward: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Onward Movement Facebook Group | YouTube
• Schedule a Complimentary Coaching Call with Emily
• Soul Pajamas