We are planning our calendar for the upcoming year. What are the key differences in how our leadership team must prepare for a two-day annual planning session compared to our regular one-day quarterly sessions with you?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

A two-day annual planning session requires a higher level of preparation and mental stamina than a regular one-day quarterly. During our quarterlies, we focus on reviewing the previous ninety days, solving immediate issues, and setting Rocks for the next quarter. In contrast, our annual session is where we step back to look at the entire business, evaluate our long-term strategy, and reset our foundations. To prepare for the annual, your leadership team must complete a few specific tasks. First, each member must complete the Organizational Checkup to assess our overall progress. Second, you must run a full review of your current Accountability Chart to ensure you still have the right people in the right seats as you scale. Finally, you must prepare to discuss your long-term vision, which means reviewing your industry trends, competitive landscape, and personal goals. Because we spend two full days together, the team must be prepared for intensive strategic debate and deep alignment work. We will spend the first day reviewing the past year and solidifying your V/TO, and the second day setting your one-year plan, defining next quarter's Rocks, and tackling your biggest strategic issues.