What do you do if strategic thinking is met with resistance from executives?

1 Understand Why

Resistance often stems from a lack of understanding or fear of change. Before addressing the resistance head-on, take time to understand the perspectives of the other executives. Listen to their concerns and try to identify the root causes of their reluctance. Are they worried about the risks involved, or do they feel that the new strategy undermines their past contributions? By acknowledging these concerns, you can tailor your approach to address specific issues and demonstrate how the new strategic thinking aligns with the company's goals and their interests.

2 Build Trust

Building trust is essential when encountering resistance. Start by sharing success stories and examples where strategic thinking has led to positive outcomes. This can help to alleviate fear and build confidence in your proposal. Engage with your fellow executives on a personal level, showing that you value their input and expertise. Transparency about the strategic thinking process and its potential impact on the company can also foster trust and open the door to more constructive dialogue.

3 Communicate Value

To persuade resistant executives, clearly articulate the value of your strategic thinking. Explain how it benefits the company in the long term and how it can solve current problems or exploit new opportunities. Use language that resonates with your audience, focusing on tangible outcomes such as increased market share, cost savings, or enhanced customer satisfaction. By linking the strategy to concrete results, you can make a compelling case for change.

4 Involve Them

Involvement leads to ownership. Invite the executives to participate in the strategic thinking process. By giving them a role in shaping the strategy, they're more likely to support it. Encourage their feedback and incorporate their ideas where appropriate. This collaborative approach not only enriches the strategy with diverse insights but also helps to break down resistance by making them part of the solution.

5 Offer Reassurances

Change can be daunting, and it's natural for executives to worry about the implications for their teams and themselves. Offer reassurances by outlining support mechanisms, such as training or additional resources, that will be available during the transition. Show them that you have considered the risks and have contingency plans in place. Demonstrating that you have thought through the potential challenges helps to mitigate fears and build confidence in the strategic direction.

6 Adapt and Evolve

Lastly, be prepared to adapt your strategic thinking based on the feedback you receive. Flexibility shows that you respect your colleagues' opinions and are committed to finding the best path forward for the company. It's important to strike a balance between staying true to your vision and being open to modifications that can enhance the strategy and increase buy-in from resistant executives.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?