In the CEO Afterlife

JUNE 20, 2013

Too often they mistake tactics for strategy. Tactics are the ever-important short term decisions and activities that win battles and contribute to winning the war. In traditional manufacturing companies, sales departments know tactics better than most other functions because sales people work with tactics every day.

Tactics 217

Tactics Retail Price Brand 217

In the CEO Afterlife

JULY 2, 2012

The 100% boundary can get crowded and those obsessed with winning or defending their territory often resort to non-strategic tactics. The tactic that works best to defend or build share in the short term is price cuts or special discounts. Be forewarned, this tactic destroys profits. The new economy doesn’t operate that way.

Sports 228

Sports Tactics Competitive Advantage Short-term 228

In the CEO Afterlife

DECEMBER 5, 2012

Recessions thrash well thought out strategic intent and pressure CEOs into a mish mash of tactical “quick fix” solutions. Finding the right people, motivating them, retaining them, facilitating their personal and professional development isn’t easy. CEOs come and go. Wall Street demands quarterly results.

Human Capital 203

Human Capital Competitive Advantage Tactics CEO 203

In the CEO Afterlife

JUNE 16, 2014

In other words, the pundits inherently assume that their morale-lifting tactics and strategies apply to any organization, no matter the product or service in which they are engaged. Beyond their intent to boost morale, the commentaries have one thing in common – the counsel is generic. They are correct in this regard. But, there is a catch.

Morale 215

Morale Human Resources Crisis Management Crisis 215

In the CEO Afterlife

OCTOBER 30, 2011

After that, you migrate to tactics – which battles to wage, when, how and with what resources. I swear too many people over complicate strategy – and then have no idea how to translate into tactics. I’m going to assume they’ve identified their competitive advantage and the secrets of success in the business they’ve defined.

Strategy 234

Strategy CEO Marketing Strategy Human Resources 234

In the CEO Afterlife

JANUARY 22, 2012

These are the folks who don’t know the difference between strategy and tactics – those who view strategy as a needless constraint. Fortunately for me, I grew up in strategic environments and I learned to balance operational challenges with strategic opportunity. Many senior managers haven’t the foggiest idea how to do this.

Strategy 196

Strategy Short-term Constraint Strategic Planning 196

In the CEO Afterlife

SEPTEMBER 25, 2015

Rather than add to a brand’s strategic advantage, they subtracted from its equity with tactical initiatives and superfluous line extensions. Kellogg’s Special K used to be known as a healthy, nutritious breakfast for diet-conscious women. The recently launched sausage, egg & cheese flatbread sandwich is 240 calories.

Brand 100

Brand Competitive Advantage Fashion Price 100