Annual & Quarterly Planning Resources

or

How to Write Goals for Work: Writing Goals 101 with Examples

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 28, 2023 @ 11:00 AM
Writing goals for work using SMART goal setting is an essential skill for both personal goals and professional success. If you aren't..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Agile Business Planning: Utilizing Agile Business Model for Growth

Posted by Ted Skinner on Mon, Feb 27, 2023 @ 09:00 AM

Business is moving faster than ever before, and these days your business needs to be as nimble possible to respond to the rapidly changing..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Team Planning: How to do Team Planning for Team Focus & Alignment

Posted by Patrick Thean on Mon, Feb 27, 2023 @ 09:00 AM

It’s time to slow down and develop a world-class team execution plan for next year. When we don’t slow down to plan our execution, our..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Leadership Accountability: Build Accountability Leadership in your Team

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Mon, Feb 13, 2023 @ 09:00 AM

From a leadership perspective, there’s a real thirst for increasing leadership accountability. Executives have recently asked me various..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams, Mergers & Acquisitions

Start Stop Continue Examples: Leverage the Start Stop Continue Exercise to Increase Performance?

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Mon, Jan 30, 2023 @ 07:10 AM
Every quarter, my team and I complete a Start-Stop-Continue (or start-stop-keep) exercise to get us thinking. It's a valuable process that..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Strategy vs Execution: Don't Confuse Strategic Thinking and Strategy Execution

Posted by Patrick Thean on Sun, Jan 29, 2023 @ 08:42 AM

 

It is easy to confuse your strategy and your 3-year strategic plan. I have seen so many leaders tell me that they have a great strategy...

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How to Facilitate a Strategic Planning Session for 2023 [Strategic Planning Workshop]

Posted by Ted Skinner on Thu, Jan 26, 2023 @ 11:03 AM

As strategy planning experts, we often get asked how to run a strategic planning meeting, as great strategic meetings don’t happen by..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

CEO Planning for 2023: How to Avoid High-Cost CEO Mistakes

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Tue, Jan 24, 2023 @ 12:00 PM

We are coming into that time of year where a lot of companies are gearing up or doing their annual planning to prepare for next year. In..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Mergers & Acquisitions

2023 Annual Planning Meeting - 5 Step Process to Create an Annual Plan with Agenda

Posted by Ted Skinner on Mon, Jan 23, 2023 @ 09:00 AM

Did you know that nearly half of all companies fail to meet financial targets? This lack of success can be traced back to poor annual..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

EOS® Rock Examples: Using Quarterly Rocks to Align Your Company in 2023

Posted by Ted Skinner on Wed, Jan 18, 2023 @ 09:15 AM

It is that time again. I am working with my clients to help create quarterly execution plans with their top Company quarterly rocks so they..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

20 Ways to Achieve Your 2023 Annual Plan

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Jan 17, 2023 @ 07:40 AM

What should you do if you cannot seem to come up with enough sales opportunities to hit the revenue target for next year?  This scenario..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to be a Good Facilitator: Top 10 Qualities of the Best Facilitators [Updated for 2023]

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Wed, Jan 11, 2023 @ 09:00 AM

Are your meetings the butt of work-related jokes? Why is it that we roll our eyes with disdain when our calendar is loaded with meetings,..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Rhythm Departmental Cascade: 5 Ways to Drive Alignment in Your Company

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Dec 30, 2022 @ 07:41 PM

Proper Quarterly Planning Rhythms.  In order to achieve organizational alignment, there needs to be an established planning Rhythm that..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How Top CEOs Prepare for a Great Quarterly Plan

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Dec 29, 2022 @ 11:03 AM

Excited. Ready. Anxious. Eager. Let’s go!

Worried. Tired. Stressed. Done. Overwhelmed.

At the end of a meeting, we usually recommend..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

2023 Strategic Planning Template

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Dec 28, 2022 @ 10:03 AM

It may seem daunting to tackle your Strategic Annual Planning session for 2022. With so much uncertainty due to the ongoing pandemic, it..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Power SWOT: Harness the Power of a 2023 SWOT Analysis!

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Dec 21, 2022 @ 12:31 PM

A common tool used in planning sessions is the SWOT analysis.  The acronym SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How Middle Market CEOs Execute on Strategy for Success (Updated for 2023)

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Dec 14, 2022 @ 10:03 AM

Most Companies Fail Due to Poor Strategic Execution

As a fan of Blue Ocean strategy, you already know how important it is to have the right..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Mergers & Acquisitions

Quarterly Planning Session in 2023: 10 Tips for a Successful Meeting

Posted by Melissa Enriquez on Wed, Dec 7, 2022 @ 01:10 PM

Quarterly Planning is just around the corner, are you prepared to create a winning plan this quarter with your team?

Here are 10 Quarterly..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

What Leaders Need to Know about Giving and Receiving Feedback (Infographic)

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Dec 1, 2022 @ 11:30 AM

When I was in college, one of my professors pulled me aside after class and said, “You have great ideas, but when you present them to the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

How to Grow Your Business: Add a Winning Move to Your Business Plan

Posted by Ted Skinner on Mon, Nov 7, 2022 @ 06:30 AM

Turn your existing 3-5 year strategic plan into a Rhythm Systems Winning Move.  A Winning Move is an idea or project that will help you..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Your Priority Areas for the Next Quarter: Effective Goal Examples

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, Oct 27, 2022 @ 12:00 PM

A new quarter is starting. It is time to discuss, prioritize and choose your top priorities for the new quarter. How do you do this? How do..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Importance of a 2023 Annual Plan: 9 Reasons Why Annual Planning Matters

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Wed, Oct 26, 2022 @ 11:00 AM

Leaders frequently ask me about how to build a performance culture focused on personal accountability, employee engagement, and results...

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Your Journey to Great Strategic Execution in 2023

Posted by Ryan Walcott on Mon, Oct 24, 2022 @ 11:01 AM

How much did misalignment cost your organization last year? Misalignment comes from poor planning, and it results in poor execution and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams

5 of the Top-Rated Features of the World’s Best Strategy Execution Software

Posted by Courtney Dyer on Mon, Oct 24, 2022 @ 06:00 AM

With 16+ years of expertise connecting long-term strategy to daily execution, Rhythm has proven to be the world’s leading platform for goal..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

Strategic Planning During COVID-19 Pandemic: Business Planning for 2023

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sat, Oct 22, 2022 @ 11:03 AM

As the summer comes to an end and fall looms with more uncertainty, it can be tempting to sit back and see what comes next—but if you..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

What's The Primary Skill To Bring To Your Annual Planning Session? Active Listening!

Posted by Erin Wilson on Thu, Oct 20, 2022 @ 06:00 AM

Active listening skills are more critical than ever, especially as we head into the annual planning season. When we pause to think ..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Level 5 Leadership Examples- How Level 5 Leaders Master Leadership

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Sun, Oct 16, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

The Level 5 Leadership Stage is Set…

Have you ever had this "strange" feeling that you just couldn’t shake? I recently went through that...

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

How Using a Digital Planning Canvas Generates Better Results

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Oct 10, 2022 @ 07:00 AM

Got your crystal ball ready for your annual planning session?

No? Hmm… Since you can't confidently see into the future (yet!), you need a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

Using Technology to Manage and Track your Strategic Plan

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Oct 5, 2022 @ 06:00 AM

 

This time of year, leaves are turning, kids are in school, and many business leaders are spending a great deal of time, energy, and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

2023 Annual Planning Process: Brainstorming 20 Ways to beat the Annual Targets

Posted by Patrick Thean on Mon, Oct 3, 2022 @ 06:00 AM

We were working on a CEO's plan for the next year when I noticed his team fidgeting and looking uncomfortable during our planning session...

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

New Middle Market CEO Checklist: 11 Tips to Get Started as a New CEO

Posted by Ted Skinner on Wed, Sep 7, 2022 @ 06:00 AM

What does it take to become a successful new middle market C.E.O.?

Read More

Topics: Increasing Sales, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

OKR Examples for Manufacturing: Measure What Matters for the Quarter

Posted by Ted Skinner on Tue, Sep 6, 2022 @ 11:04 AM

In any industrial company, there are business goals to hit, KPIs to measure and OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) to complete. In..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, OKRs

Planning Meeting Agenda for 2023: Conduct an Effective Planning Session

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Aug 31, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

You can make an argument that your company’s annual planning meeting is the most important thing you do all year. It is where you have your..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Don't Let Your 2023 Annual Plan Fail by Using Strategy Execution Spreadsheets

Posted by Ted Skinner on Tue, Aug 30, 2022 @ 11:30 AM

Many companies have strong Annual Plans but fail to execute on them and miss their targets year after year. They know that they are missing..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Targets 2023: How to Set Performance Targets

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Aug 30, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

As Chris Cosper detailed in a previous post, we have the ability to record 3 types of metrics in our Rhythm cloud based strategy platform:

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Why You Need a Facilitator to Drive Your Virtual Strategic Planning Process [Infographic]

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Aug 29, 2022 @ 10:16 AM

Many unknowable things can happen between now and the beginning of 2023. One thing we do know is that when next year hits, you will need to..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Goal Setting for Managers: A Guide to Goal Setting

Posted by Ted Skinner on Mon, Aug 29, 2022 @ 06:00 AM

Use the SMART Goals Framework

The SMART goals framework helps you set realistic goals that are measurable, attainable, relevant, specific,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings, New CEO

Planning for an Uncertain 2023: Tips to Create Plan A and Plan B

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sun, Aug 28, 2022 @ 11:03 AM

We recently held our 6th annual Breakthrough Conference, although it was our first ever virtual conference, and I want to share a few ideas..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Strategic Planning Tips: 17 Expert Tips for Effective Planning

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Fri, Jul 29, 2022 @ 10:57 AM

Strategic planning is a critical part of running a successful company or organization. Yet, too often, companies don’t take enough time to..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Make Better Business Decisions in Your Next Strategic Planning Session

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Jul 20, 2022 @ 02:35 PM
The best companies are already starting their Annual Strategic Planning process for 2023. They're engaging in pre-planning activities like
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

When to Do Strategic and Annual Planning vs. Budgeting?

Posted by Cindy Praeger on Mon, Jul 18, 2022 @ 12:00 PM

Most companies do budgeting first and then strategy and annual planning. Think about this. If you have created a budget, you have..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Leadership Team Alignment: How to Align Your Leadership Goals

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Thu, Jun 30, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

If you have ever downloaded any tools or other resources on our site, you know that we usually ask you about your Biggest Business..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Organizational Alignment: How to Get Everyone on Board

Posted by Ted Skinner on Mon, Jun 27, 2022 @ 11:15 AM

Verne Harnish notes in his book Mastering the Rockefeller Habits that the difference between organizational vision and organizational..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

How to Cascade Your Strategic Plan (Infographic)

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, May 30, 2022 @ 12:00 PM

At Rhythm Systems, we believe that having a strong Think Plan Do Rhythm is essential to growing your business with purpose. And, we think..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Culture of High Performing Teams: How to Create a Team Rhythm for Success

Posted by Ted Skinner on Tue, May 24, 2022 @ 12:35 PM

How does culture play a role in team performance? What makes some teams perform better than others? Is it really possible to create a high..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Virtual Strategic Planning Sessions: 7 Tips for Great Strategic Zoom Meetings

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Mar 30, 2022 @ 11:03 AM

If you are like many of our clients, you may be considering adjusting travel plans for your team in the midst of the concern surrounding..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Align People: Get Everyone on the Same Page with Alignment Meetings

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Mar 21, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

Sounds like a simple concept: Alignment.  What makes this so hard to achieve?  The fact is, if you are hiring the right people, you will..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Welcome to Charlotte!

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Mar 1, 2022 @ 10:48 AM

We are thrilled to host our Annual Breakthrough Conference once again in Charlotte, NC, May 4th-5th 2022, at the Charlotte Marriott City..

Read More

Topics: Increasing Sales, Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams, Mergers & Acquisitions

Quick Tips to Set SMART Goals [Infographic]

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 22, 2022 @ 11:02 AM

In a former job, I had a manager who called all of his direct reports together to tell us some exciting news! We were embarking on a big..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

How to Prepare for An Effective 2023 Strategic Planning Session [Video]

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Feb 3, 2022 @ 11:00 AM

At this point in the year, many companies are gearing up to plan for the next year as part of their strategic planning process. Before you..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Run a Lean Company-Wide Goal Setting Process

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 1, 2022 @ 02:46 PM
When it comes to goal setting, there are two extremes that come up over and over again. Some companies tend to err on the side of..
Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings, goal planning

The Right Meeting Rhythm Will Set You Free! (Infographic)

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 1, 2022 @ 08:57 AM

It sounds so simple.  But, I was just discussing scaling up meeting rhythms with one of my colleagues, and she told me that it took her..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Meeting Cascade: The Art of the Daily Huddle

Posted by Chris Cosper on Mon, Jan 31, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

So, how’s your huddle? I’ve written about huddles before and honestly believe they can be a breakthrough component in building..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Sales KPI Examples For Successful Sales Teams

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Sun, Jan 30, 2022 @ 03:38 PM

One of my favorite teams to coach through the Rhythm Cascade process is the Sales team.  Having been part of a large sales organization..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Cross-Functional Alignment Simplified

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Jan 26, 2022 @ 10:01 AM
Integrating acquisitions, launching new products, deploying new company-wide systems or processes, shifting your organizational structure,..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Cascade Meeting: Top 3 Things to Decide Prior to Cascading to Teams

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Jan 26, 2022 @ 09:00 AM

Implementing a new methodology for your team that requires people to be more focused, aligned and accountable doesn't always have everyone..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Does Your KPI Dashboard Measure What Matters?

Posted by Ted Skinner on Mon, Jan 24, 2022 @ 11:04 AM

I have to admit that I am a data geek. I do know that I have a unique personality type and most people aren’t interested in digging deep..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Effective Meetings

Strategic Questions for 2023 and Beyond

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Jan 20, 2022 @ 11:17 AM
As we begin 2022, there are a lot of questions we just can't answer. We'll continue to experience uncertainty about the ongoing impact of..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How Expert Facilitators Run Great Zoom Meetings in Rhythm

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Jan 17, 2022 @ 11:04 AM
If you had told our team of expert facilitators this time last year that they would be doing 90% of their strategic facilitation work..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

20 Mile March: My Introduction

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sat, Jan 15, 2022 @ 06:46 AM

I am a big fan of Jim Collins and have used his book “Good to Great” as a business tool for many years. I was recently introduced to the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Spring Is Here! Time to Refresh Your Goals

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Jan 12, 2022 @ 11:03 AM
It's undeniable the new season has arrived—everything's in bloom, days are getting longer and warmer, and it's time for spring cleaning,..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Using Zoom to Facilitate Your Strategic and Execution Planning Meetings for Stellar Results

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Jan 12, 2022 @ 11:03 AM

As in the past many years, I entered 2020 with a full schedule of strategy and execution planning work with my clients. Then the pandemic..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Executive Meeting Agenda: Optimize your Weekly Executive Meeting

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Jan 5, 2022 @ 11:29 AM

Executive Weekly Meeting Team Size

For the most effective weekly team meeting, your weekly leadership meeting team should consist of 8-10..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

2023 Annual Planning: It's a Process, Not an Event

Posted by Chris Cosper on Tue, Dec 7, 2021 @ 11:03 AM

A CEO has many responsibilities, and among the top is ensuring the company has a sound plan and budget going into each new year. Seasoned..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Stress Test Your Quarterly Plan (Video)

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, Nov 30, 2021 @ 11:00 AM

So you've just completed your Quarterly Planning Session and are ready to execute.  Before you get started, how do you know you have the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Align Your Team's Calendar to Achieve a Healthy Operating Rhythm

Posted by Melissa Enriquez on Mon, Nov 22, 2021 @ 10:06 AM

The holidays are just around the corner and everyone is hustling to wrap things up before some well deserved time off. Did your team have..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Smart Priorities: Are Your Priorities SMART?

Posted by Ted Skinner on Thu, Nov 18, 2021 @ 05:44 PM

Creating Company, Group, and Individual priorities is a key success factor (a leading indicator KPI) to achieving both your short-term and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

5 Telltale Signs of Trouble and How to Prevent Departmental Silos

Posted by Alison Brown on Thu, Nov 4, 2021 @ 09:00 AM

No one wants to have silos in their company, but even in my short career I’ve seen many companies that do. You need organization and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Cascade Planning: The Value of Team and Company Alignment

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Sat, Oct 30, 2021 @ 09:00 AM

Looking back at the most recent quarter turnover from Q3 to Q4, I realize that I introduced 14 new cascade teams to the power of Rhythm! ..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

3 Things to Do when Yearly Planning

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Sep 29, 2021 @ 11:03 AM

 

2020 was an extraordinary year on many fronts. Most people I know are very glad it is behind them, and now that it is and we are a month..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning Like A Pro in 2023: Strategy Execution Made Easy

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Sep 23, 2021 @ 11:15 AM
At Rhythm Systems, we have been helping companies build strategic execution plans for the last 15 years. We've learned a lot in that time,..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings

Personal Accountability Exercises - How Does Your Team Stack Up?

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sat, Jul 31, 2021 @ 09:30 AM

Quite a few years back, a good friend of mine introduced me to John Miller and his book “QBQThe Question Behind the Question.”  I had..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Resourcing Across Strategic Priorities

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Jul 7, 2021 @ 11:03 AM
Many companies are figuring out how to do more with less as a result of the pandemic and ensuing economic hardships. Some are relying more..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Halftime Adjustments: Mid-Year Planning is Critical in 2022

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, May 28, 2021 @ 11:04 AM
Think back to the fall when most of you created your plans and goals for the year. There was so much uncertainty - nobody knew how quickly..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Magical Thinking and Managing Your Expectations

Posted by Paige Wilcox on Wed, May 19, 2021 @ 11:05 AM
Have you ever been particularly busy with work—maybe leading up to a big event or project deadline—and tell yourself, "OK, things will..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Use Core Values to Strategize Your Post-COVID Return to the Office

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Mar 23, 2021 @ 11:03 AM
Now that vaccinations are in sight for most of us, many leaders whose companies have been mostly remote for the last year are..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Quarterly Rocks: The Difference Between KPIs and Quarterly Rocks

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Feb 24, 2021 @ 09:30 AM

What's the difference between KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and Quarterly Rocks? This can be a very confusing question, especially for..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Tips to Help You Prepare to Facilitate a One-Day Quarterly Planning Session

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Fri, Jan 1, 2021 @ 07:00 AM

Who is facilitating your next One-Day Quarterly Planning Session?

Whether you are doing it yourself, bringing in an outside facilitator,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Pressure Test Your Plan

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Dec 9, 2020 @ 11:01 AM

This year, our expert consultants have been recommending a more agile approach to strategic planning; rather than hunkering down for two..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

CEO Secret Weapon: Simple, Proven System for Success

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Dec 2, 2020 @ 11:39 AM

For over a decade, our consultants have worked with client CEOs to help them exceed industry standards and build great companies. Having..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Models for Successful Cross-Functional Planning

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Mon, Nov 23, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

One of the biggest challenges for companies is aligning their priorities across the entire organization. As a leader, you need the right..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Preparation is Key: 21 Quotes to Inspire Your Planning Process

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Oct 29, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

Over the last few months, my husband and I have been re-watching AMC’s Mad Men, a show we started a long time ago and never finished in the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Do You Need a Strategy Refresh?

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Oct 28, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

There is no better time than the present to work on completing your strategy. You may have wanted to nail down your work on core customer,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Breakthrough 2020: Key Insights and Takeaways

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Oct 27, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

One of the best parts of our annual Breakthrough Conference is getting our Rhythm community together to live our core values of Keep Smart,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

The Psychology of Goal Setting & Why You Can't Skip Planning

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Oct 8, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

Many companies are tempted to power through the end of the year and see what happens. That approach could prove catastrophic for your..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Breakthrough 2020 Goes Virtual: What to Expect

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Sep 23, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

Our first-ever virtual Breakthrough Conference is just a few weeks away! Here's a sneak peek so you know what to expect from this..

Read More

Topics: Increasing Sales, Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Done! How to Close Out a Quarter

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Sep 15, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

As we wrap up Q3 and move on to Q4, I’ve had a lot of conversations with clients and my team about the best practices for closing out a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Don’t Let COVID-19 Disrupt Your Strategy and Execution Planning Cadence!

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Aug 12, 2020 @ 12:12 PM

Most companies we work with are still operating in a virtual or semi-virtual world, and fortunately, employees are adapting well. It is..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

The Anatomy of a Great Quarterly Plan (Infographic)

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sat, Aug 1, 2020 @ 09:00 AM

Your Quarterly Planning session is arguably the most important day or two out of your next 90 days. You need to emerge from that session..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

10 Questions to Determine if Your Team Needs a Virtual Planning Session

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Fri, Jul 31, 2020 @ 04:34 PM

I facilitate a lot of strategy and execution planning sessions throughout the year. The majority of the time, I do this on-site with a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

KPI Targets: Know the Difference Between Key Priorities, KPIs and Targets

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Jul 30, 2020 @ 08:30 AM

The most common pitfall I see in companies who are new to Rhythm and the Rockefeller Habits is thinking that setting targets for their KPIs

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Virtual Planning Lessons: Keep Your Company Out of COVID-19 Trouble

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Fri, Jul 24, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

According to FEMA, only 60% of small businesses reopen after a disaster. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues this..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Priority ZERO: Make COVID-19 Part of Your Survive, Recover and Thrive Mentality

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Fri, Jun 26, 2020 @ 12:58 PM

We all know we need to be prepared for the worst—while striving for the best—when it comes to the effects of COVID-19, and the market has..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

Aligned Planning: Getting Aligned Cross-Functionally Throughout the Quarter

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Sun, May 31, 2020 @ 09:00 AM

The things I'm most excited about in the new version of Rhythm are the features for cross-functional teams and departments. Achieving team..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Team Bandwidth: How to Accurately Calculate Your Team’s Bandwidth

Posted by Deb Colson on Fri, May 22, 2020 @ 09:00 AM

Have you ever been in your departmental quarterly planning session, and you feel resistance from a team member about taking on another..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Cash is King – Do You Know Where Your Cash Is?

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Thu, May 14, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

It was the 2007-2009 recession, and markets were uncertain. Things were generally OK with my business, yet with years of experience through..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Turn 880 Pages of Complexity into How You Care for Coronavirus Relief

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Thu, May 7, 2020 @ 11:44 AM

The 880-page CARES Act requires ongoing, focused effort to reduce the complexity to useful information. Just like filing taxes, some are..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

A Well-Balanced Annual Plan (Infographic)

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sat, Feb 29, 2020 @ 09:00 AM

Many of our clients whose fiscal year doesn't match the calendar year are about to close the books on another successful year! That means..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Super SMART Goals - Do You Have Them?

Posted by Melissa Enriquez on Thu, Feb 27, 2020 @ 07:06 AM

You have just finished a very successful Quarterly Planning Session with your team, and now it is time to get to work.  Your team is fired..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

A Tale of Two Unicorns: What They Have in Common

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 25, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

Recently, AvidXchange, a Charlotte-based fin tech company, announced Series F funding. Their innovative accounts payable platform is..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Planning Session Preparation Tips

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Jan 31, 2020 @ 09:30 AM

Preparation is one of the keys to a successful planning session.  One of best things you can do to ensure that you’ll have a solid plan at..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Strategic Thinking and Planning: The Value of A More Robust Annual Plan

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Thu, Jan 30, 2020 @ 11:30 AM

Regardless of size, all businesses require strategic thinking to grow. Many leaders consider strategic thinking (and the subsequent..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Close the Strategy Execution Gap

Posted by Ted Skinner on Fri, Jan 24, 2020 @ 12:00 PM

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Okay, I don’t want to create “holiday creep” where Christmas decorations are out even before the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Value of Professional Facilitation for Quarterly and Annual Planning

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Thu, Jan 23, 2020 @ 09:00 AM

Unfortunately, I’ve seen leading companies spend (aka “waste”) time in a one or two-day Annual Planning orQuarterly Planning Session. The..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Using Week In Sync Notes to Solve Problems and Drive Alignment

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Jan 22, 2020 @ 01:50 PM

Our recommended Weekly Meeting Agenda involves talking about three things:   1. your company  2. yourself  3. your clients/employees.  The..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Encouraging Accountability in Your Organization

Posted by Chris Cosper on Mon, Jan 20, 2020 @ 07:04 AM

“We need more accountability around here.”  “We need to hold people accountable.”  This is one of the most consistent themes we hear from..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Annual Planning Focus: Do You Have the Structure in Place to Focus This Year?

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Jan 17, 2020 @ 12:00 AM

Fall is upon us. School is back in session, the leaves are beginning to turn, the air is crisp, Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back at Starbucks…..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Don't Let Your Annual Planning Fail: Create a 4-Quarter Flyover

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Jan 16, 2020 @ 11:00 AM

Are you setting your team up to fail to deliver your Annual Initiatives? There’s only one way to know: create a 4-Quarter Flyover Plan. 

..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Rockefeller Habit Checklist: Establishing a Communication Rhythm

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Jan 15, 2020 @ 05:28 PM

This month we have all been reflecting on the Rockefeller Habits Checklist.  One of the most important elements is establishing a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

4 Tips for a Strong Annual Plan

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Jan 14, 2020 @ 12:00 PM

It’s that time of year again when executives are thinking about their annual plan and asking themselves, “where do I start?” A lot of..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Think Plan Do to Achieve Your Personal Goals

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Jan 10, 2020 @ 12:00 PM

At Rhythm Systems, we teach our clients to grow their businesses with purpose using our Think Plan Do® methodology.  We believe the best..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

13 Week Plan: To Execute Well, Run a 13-Week Race Every Quarter

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Jan 10, 2020 @ 07:53 AM

Every quarter is a thirteen-week race. It goes by fast. Before you know it, the quarter is over. And then the year is over. You are left..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

6 Questions to Reveal Your Strategic Plan (Infographic)

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Jan 9, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

As you lead your team through strategic planning, one of the hardest discussions can be around strategy. Sometimes, your team has more..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

3 Must-Do's for Strategic Planning (and 1 Thing You Should Never Do)

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Jan 8, 2020 @ 11:51 AM

Planning is very important to set your company up for a successful year. You have probably heard the saying, "If you don't know where..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Frustrated From Your Balanced Scorecard Software Implementation?

Posted by Ryan Walcott on Fri, Jan 3, 2020 @ 09:00 AM

The Balanced Scorecard (BSC) is a popular strategic management system proposed by Robert Kaplan and David Norton and documented in their..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Annual Strategic Planning: Reflecting and Planning for a Great Year

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, Jan 1, 2020 @ 11:03 AM

2019 is coming to an end. I find myself flying across the Atlantic Ocean to Singapore for my mother’s birthday. From Singapore, I will then..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Is Your Quarterly Plan Execution Ready?

Posted by Paige Wilcox on Fri, Dec 6, 2019 @ 11:03 AM

For those of us who operate on a calendar year, 2019 Q4 is well underway, and we'll be in 2020 Q1 before you know it. Don't panic, but do..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Garner Support for Your Annual Plan

Posted by Chris Cosper on Thu, Nov 14, 2019 @ 11:03 AM

Recently, I’ve noticed that many of our clients are involving more and more people in the planning process. As they head into Annual..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning: 2 Lessons from Elephant and Piggie

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Nov 1, 2019 @ 11:03 PM

As a parent with young kids, I read a lot of children’s books (many of the same ones over and over again to the point of having them..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Staying Connected to Your Annual Plan All Year

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Oct 30, 2019 @ 09:00 AM

It’s that time again – back-to-school, pumpkin everything, football, and Annual Planning season! You and your team are about to invest so..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning - Focus on Your Core Customer

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, Oct 2, 2019 @ 05:32 PM

Not all customers are created equal.  Some are more equal than others.  We refer to these as our Core Customers.  Core Customers are the..

Read More

Topics: Increasing Sales, Annual & Quarterly Planning

7 Tips for CEOs for Drama-Free Planning & Strategy Sessions

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Sep 27, 2019 @ 11:37 AM

Strategy & Annual Planning Sessions tend  to drum up lots of emotions. For some, planning is exciting and fun, while others approach it..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Two Truths and a Lie: The Sears Saga and Your 3-5 Year Strategic Plan

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Fri, Sep 6, 2019 @ 02:34 PM

I’ve observed a common theme in client companies. I should say, a specific type of client companies. The type that successfully grow year..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Planning for Planning: How to Prepare for a Great Annual Planning Meeting

Posted by Paige Wilcox on Tue, Aug 27, 2019 @ 12:41 PM

What makes an Annual Planning session successful? Meaningful discussion around the right topics is a start, but you don't get there by..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Cascading Rhythm - What Should I Expect?

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Jul 31, 2019 @ 04:34 PM

In the last two years, many of my clients have taken the brave and ambitious step of cascading Rhythm deeper in their organizations.  It's..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Why You Can't Miss the 2019 Breakthrough Conference

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Jun 6, 2019 @ 11:04 AM

"Spectacular keynote speeches, incredibly, relevant, informative breakout sessions. Thank you!"

“Loved the human element of business that..

Read More

Topics: Increasing Sales, Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams, Mergers & Acquisitions

Keep the Love Alive with Your Annual Plan and Avoid Sharknado

Posted by Liz McBride on Fri, May 31, 2019 @ 11:03 AM

You’re a couple of months into your 2019 annual plans - the honeymoon phase. Your annual plan still looks good, you’re excited to see it as..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

8 Ways to Cast Light on the Shadows of Innovation

Posted by Liz McBride on Tue, Apr 23, 2019 @ 11:02 AM

“If you can move people by inspiring and building their confidence to own and drive your new strategy, they will be committed to seeing..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Quarterly Planning: Use a Start-Stop-Keep Exercise [Infographic]

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Mar 14, 2019 @ 12:29 PM

As the CEO or team leader, you probably put a lot of time and energy into preparing for your Annual and Quarterly Planning sessions for..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Is Your Team Accountable to Your Annual Plan?

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Mar 7, 2019 @ 12:02 AM

According to PMI’s 2017 Global Project Management Survey, 1 in 4 strategic initiatives fail. This is not great news for anyone who recently..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

How Managers Support the Executive Team

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Mon, Mar 4, 2019 @ 01:30 PM

Having been with Rhythm Systems since 2010, I have had the privilege of consulting with some teams for over 5 years. I love seeing teams..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Sharing Quarterly Plans Across Departments

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Feb 28, 2019 @ 12:00 PM

There are many different characteristics and habits of High Performance Teams, but one that has a big impact on execution is sharing..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Getting Unstuck on Your BHAG

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Feb 21, 2019 @ 11:04 AM

Looking back on the Annual Planning season, it seems like I was surrounded by BHAG talk! Many of you started working on nailing down your..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

We Have An Annual Plan - What Now? [Infographic]

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 19, 2019 @ 02:17 PM

Many companies invest a lot of time, energy, and resources in crafting a strategic plan for the year. Unfortunately, many of those Annual..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Characteristics of Well-Written Priorities

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Feb 1, 2019 @ 12:00 PM

Every quarter we see thousands of Priorities recorded in Rhythm. Some priorities will be execution-ready and finish SuperGreen. Others will..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Team Silos Can Sneak Up on You: Get Your Departments Aligned

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Jan 31, 2019 @ 09:00 AM

At Rhythm Systems, we specialize in helping mid-market companies grow with purpose. However, our team is still relatively small. We’re..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Software Implementation: Myth vs. Reality

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, Jan 22, 2019 @ 11:29 AM

Bringing Rhythm into your organization can be a big change. However, it’s the first step on an exciting journey that will help you and your..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Rhythm Software Ensures Your Quarterly Plan is Execution Ready

Posted by Ryan Walcott on Tue, Jan 15, 2019 @ 10:45 AM

Our Rhythm Systems consultants have worked for years to help management teams create execution ready quarterly plans to achieve their..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Rhythm Systems' Most Popular Blogs of 2018

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Jan 11, 2019 @ 11:45 AM

Here at Rhythm Systems, we are very blessed to have almost 10,000 blog subscribers, 10+ regular contributors, and many amazing readers who..

Read More

Topics: Increasing Sales, Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams, Mergers & Acquisitions

5 Secrets to Make Happy Money in Your Business

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Tue, Jan 8, 2019 @ 10:46 AM

As I think over last year, I wonder why some companies increased sales and were happily forging ahead while others never moved out of the..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Tips to Shake up Your Planning

Posted by Liz McBride on Fri, Jan 4, 2019 @ 10:46 AM

I am incredibly lucky to work with clients quarter after quarter, year over year. We’re part of each other’s extended family. My home state..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How Simms Fishing Engages Their Employees

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Jan 1, 2019 @ 09:00 AM

We are proud to announce that Retail TouchPoints recently featured two of our long-time clients, Simms Fishing Products, and luxury..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Why Should We Discuss Client and Employee Feedback at Our Weekly Meetings?

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Mon, Dec 24, 2018 @ 11:06 AM

Today, a client asked me to clarify the purpose of the Client/Employee Feedback item on the Weekly Meeting Agenda. It got me thinking and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Fire Bullets Then Cannonballs to Get the Most from Your Strategy

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sat, Nov 24, 2018 @ 09:00 AM

As we approach the busiest season for annual planning, I am encouraging clients to spend more time working on their strategic priorities,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Avoid Overloading Your Team

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Nov 20, 2018 @ 12:30 PM

Most of our successful mid-market clients have no shortage of great ideas. The constraint lies with the time and resources to get it all..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams

What Are Your Core Competencies? [Infographic]

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Nov 9, 2018 @ 11:03 AM

Think about it - what sets your company apart? Are you poised to quickly enter emerging markets and innovate new products and services that..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

How Successful Leaders Set Goals to Finish the Year Strong [Video]

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Nov 6, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

It’s time to plan your fourth quarter and finish the year strong! One of the reasons plans fail is due to poorly defined goals and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Expert Annual Planning Tips [Interview]

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, Nov 1, 2018 @ 11:21 AM

During Q4, many companies begin to think and plan for the next year. To gain insight into the process and importance of planning for the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

CEOs: Create a Strong Quarterly Plan to End the Year [Video]

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Oct 23, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

A new quarter is upon us. It is time to learn from the quarter that just ended and develop a killer plan to end the year strong. I believe..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Don't Just Spend the Budget: Design an Effective Annual Planning Process

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Oct 16, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

Many companies begin their annual planning process by first creating their annual budget. Then they bring the budget to their annual..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How Much Time Should I Allocate for My Quarterly Planning Session?

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Fri, Sep 28, 2018 @ 12:00 PM

By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail – Benjamin Franklin

It is that time of the year again: time to prepare for your quarterly..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

A CEO's Guide to Finding Hidden Disease in Your Organization

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Sep 20, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

You go to your doctor every year for a physical, but you rarely do this for your business. As you prepare your team for Annual Planning,..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Are Your Annual Plans Really Strategic? Your Results Depend on It [Video]

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Tue, Aug 7, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

I would challenge you to think very hard about this question as it’s not an easy one to answer based on my experience as a facilitator,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

How SMACCC Will Save Your Company

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Wed, Jul 11, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

“A good plan executed right now is far better than a perfect plan next week.” - George S. Patton

Patton had it right. An executive pattern..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Establishing the Weekly Meeting Habit at the Team Level

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Jun 1, 2018 @ 06:04 AM

Successful Rhythm Cascade implementation hinges greatly on Team Leaders. Once the Company's Quarterly Plan is established, Team Leaders..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Why Your Team Didn’t Get Expected Results [Video]

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, May 8, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

"Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." - Mike Tyson

I've never met a CEO who expected his or her team and their..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

The 4 Most Common Reasons Revenue Initiatives Fail [Video]

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Thu, Mar 15, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

You worked hard with your team to develop a winning annual plan. Everyone is optimistic going into the year that this plan is going to..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Lean Quarterly Planning: How Complex Companies Plan & Drive Out Waste

Posted by Chris Cosper on Tue, Mar 6, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

The primary goal of any lean initiative is to drive out waste. Have you considered whether or not you have waste in your quarterly planning..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Getting a Grip on Your Annual Planning Process

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Tue, Jan 9, 2018 @ 11:00 AM

As you set your strategic priorities for the upcoming year, remember an important distinction: Your “strategic plan” isn’t as important as..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Why You Should Invest in Performance Development, Not Annual Reviews

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Fri, Dec 15, 2017 @ 11:17 AM

As we head into the end of the year, many leaders are gearing up for more than just Annual Planning and holiday celebrations - many are..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

5 Ways to Solve Problems Faster During Annual Planning

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Nov 27, 2017 @ 11:30 AM

Your Annual Planning meeting is one of the most important—and expensive—few days for your company every year. How can you be sure to..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Use an Objective Statement to Begin with the End in Mind

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Nov 24, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

With this quarterly planning season coming to a close, I've discussed hundreds of priorities in the last few weeks with clients - you are a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

‘Tis the Season for Writing Effective Annual Initiatives

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Mon, Nov 20, 2017 @ 11:30 AM

It’s that time of year again – just about everyone on a traditional calendar year is gearing up for Annual Planning! You and your team will..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

Do You Have a Line Item in Your Budget for Innovation? Your Success Depends on it!

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Fri, Nov 17, 2017 @ 11:30 AM

It’s that time of year to create a winning plan for next year. As part of the Annual Planning process, you will be reviewing last year’s..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Lack of Visibility - You Can't Solve What You Can't See

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Nov 15, 2017 @ 11:30 AM

Imagine this - you set out a quarterly plan with your team. Your top priority is to launch a new product. Everyone is excited! You want to..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

3 Tools for Better Brainstorming

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Nov 13, 2017 @ 11:30 AM

Creative problem solving is an essential skill in our ever-evolving work world.  As more and more technical and analytical aspects of our..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Harness the Thinking Power of Your Team to Create Great Annual Plans

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sat, Nov 11, 2017 @ 09:30 AM

“Nothing is more dangerous than an idea when it is the only one you have.” - Emil Chartier

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

What Is Poor Annual and Quarterly Planning Costing Your Company?

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Nov 8, 2017 @ 11:30 AM

Your annual and quarterly planning sessions are expensive. Let’s do a little exercise:

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

A Better System to Successfully Integrate Business Acquisitions

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sun, Oct 15, 2017 @ 12:00 PM

I recently wrote a blog highlighting the first differentiator for the webinar I presented for the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).

..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Mergers & Acquisitions

Are You Getting Good ROI on Your Planning Sessions?

Posted by Chris Cosper on Thu, Oct 12, 2017 @ 11:00 AM

Your planning sessions are important and expensive. Whether they’re Quarterly Planning Sessions, Annual Planning Sessions, or Strategic..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Effective Meetings

Bringing Your Annual Plan to Life

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Sun, Oct 8, 2017 @ 12:00 PM

When we hear of silos, our minds drift to a beautiful landscape where we find tall grain bins built on finely manicured and plowed fields...

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Are You Making These 3 Leadership Mistakes?

Posted by Alicia Croke on Thu, Sep 14, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

As Annual Planning approaches for many companies, leadership teams are sitting down to develop their goals for 2018. How was your 2017? Did..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How to Close out the Quarter for Future Success

Posted by Liz McBride on Thu, Jul 27, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

As I’ve said before, I learn as much from my clients as they do from me. And then I unabashedly make it my own, share it with others, and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Maximize Your Productivity by Focusing On The Right Priorities

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sun, May 28, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

We all have those moments when we feel like there is just never enough time or energy to get it all done. There actually isn’t. It doesn’t..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

3 Parts Of An Execution Ready Quarterly Plan (Video)

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, May 25, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

Develop an execution ready plan for your quarter, each and every quarter! This will help you to have a successful quarter each and every..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

People Are Confused - What Should I Do?

Posted by Liz McBride on Sun, May 21, 2017 @ 12:00 PM

I’m a fly on the wall during a client’s departmental quarterly planning meeting when someone completely unsolicited said, “I love Rhythm. I..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Annual Planning: Does Your Plan Include Winning Moves?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Mar 10, 2017 @ 10:50 AM

It is important to have winning strategies that drive your annual plan.  Don't just focus on revenues and profit and growth.  Also focus..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Why Your Annual Plan Never Works Out the Way You Plan

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sun, Feb 26, 2017 @ 12:00 PM

Here we are - the beginning of a new year. Chances are, you invested the time and resources into an annual planning session. What do you..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Top 5 Mistakes People Make in Planning

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, Feb 23, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

I recently facilitated an annual planning session for a client. During our debrief after the session, the team shared that it was one of..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Use Your Main Thing to Engage Your Team (Video)

Posted by Nicole Hradek on Thu, Feb 2, 2017 @ 09:00 AM

Most of you have probably wrapped up your Annual Planning sessions and feel prepared for 2017. You have the best 3-5 initiatives to move..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Do You Have A One Page Strategic Plan?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Jan 10, 2017 @ 11:42 AM

Many companies have nicely bound and thick strategic plans.  Thick plans. What I call high "thud factor" plans.  So heavy that if you drop..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Who Should Attend My Annual Planning Session to Develop the Best Plan?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, Dec 1, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

“Who should attend our annual planning session? Should it just be my executive team?” I get asked this question all the time. The default..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

When to Do Annual Planning vs. Budgeting?

Posted by Melissa Perna on Wed, Nov 23, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

Each year, we put together a financial budget for the upcoming year. We try to anticipate what the new year will bring in Revenues and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Top 10 Things To Do For Your Team in Q4 (Video)

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Nov 17, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

Fall is finally in the air - the season for celebrating the close of another year and preparing for a fresh new start in the year to come...

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Real Examples of How to Use Planning Notes

Posted by Liz McBride on Thu, Apr 7, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

Thomas H., one of our subscribers, asked, "What are some best practices on the planning notes features in Rhythm software?"

You're busily..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How AvidXchange’s Strategy Rhythm Sky Rocketed Them to $48 MM

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Mar 22, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

The fast growing Charlotte-based YPO company, AvidXchange, has grown from $12 to $48 million in the past three years and is shaping the..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning for Departmental Groups

Posted by Chris Cosper on Tue, Mar 1, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

Annual Planning is a key component in any successful company's Plan Rhythm. It's the linchpin that connects strategy to execution. It's the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Think You’re Ready to Execute Your Annual Plan? Take This Quiz

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Thu, Feb 4, 2016 @ 09:00 AM

This is going to be a great year! You spent two full days working hard, envisioning the year you want, having the tough conversations,..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How to Build an "Execution Ready" Quarterly Plan

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Oct 15, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

I'm excited to be leading a breakout session at our upcoming Breakthrough Conference. Admittedly, at first, I was a little nervous. Then, I..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

3 Ways to Shake Up Your Planning Session (Video)

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, Sep 22, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

Having been with Rhythm since 2010, I have some teams that have done over 20 consecutive quarterly planning sessions. Can you imagine the..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Nostradamus Predicts Steve Jobs Was a Bad Model for Startups

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Fri, Sep 11, 2015 @ 08:43 PM

Since the publication of Les Propheties, Nostradamus has attracted loyal followers that, along with much of the press, give him credit for..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Does Your Quarterly Plan Wish to Go to the Moon?

Posted by Liz McBride on Tue, Aug 11, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

We are officially in the swing of Q3! Did you have a nice vacation? Are you picking up slack for your tan-worshiping co-workers as we..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

What’s in a Word: Writing Solid Quarterly Plans

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Jun 29, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

Recently, my colleague Tiffany wrote a post about Characteristics of Well-Written Priorities. Her post got me thinking that many of us..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

4 Tips for Starting Your Next 13-Week Race

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Jun 22, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

We are about a week away from the end of the quarter, and you can see the finish line for your 13-week race™! At this time, there are..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Keeping Projects on Schedule Using Special KPIs

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sun, Jun 14, 2015 @ 12:00 PM

If you have ever downloaded any tools or other resources on our site, you know that we usually ask you about your Biggest Business..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

The Cure for Execution Indigestion

Posted by Liz McBride on Tue, Apr 28, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

It’s 11:00 am on Friday. I’m debriefing my colleagues on the great work Gautneau Alignment’s CEO has done to cure his team of KPI-tice when..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How Do I Know If I’m Working on the Right Things?

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Sun, Apr 19, 2015 @ 12:00 PM

Have you noticed that everyone is always so busy? You hear it all the time - the most common answer I hear to “How are you?” is “I'm so..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

As CEO, How Much Space Should You Take in the Room?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, Apr 8, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

Many CEOs I work with struggle with this same issue, and some don’t even know that they have a challenge. They present an idea to their..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings, Accountable Leaders & Teams

How to Start Your 13-Week Race With Discipline

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, Apr 1, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

CEO Mike Praeger just kicked off AvidXchange’s 15th year in business. They celebrated their explosive growth over the last few years and..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Is Your Quarterly Plan Execution-Ready? (Video)

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Sun, Mar 22, 2015 @ 12:00 PM

Each quarter, after our Rhythm Elite clients complete their Quarterly Planning Session, they review their plan with their Rhythm Coach to..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Train a Team Member to Facilitate a Quarterly Planning Session

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Fri, Feb 27, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

Our next Valentine's Day contest winner is Cara R. Here's her question: "What is the best way to train someone on our team to facilitate a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

When Personalities Walk into a Meeting

Posted by Liz McBride on Thu, Feb 19, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

I think it was hour three into my Topgrading interview for my coaching position at Rhythm Systems when my McQuaig personality results were..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Crystal Ball Resourcing

Posted by Liz McBride on Thu, Feb 12, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

Don’t you hate it when you can’t find your magic crystal ball to tell HR how many resources you’ll need next year? As the new year gets..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Get Your Player in the Game with Effective Communication

Posted by Liz McBride on Fri, Jan 30, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

“Some people are so...helpless.”

At a recent quarterly planning session, one of the executives explained how he’s trying to communicate..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Breakthrough Execution - 4 Steps to Executing a Successful Quarter

Posted by Patrick Thean on Sun, Jan 25, 2015 @ 12:30 PM

I recently facilitated a client’s quarterly planning session. They really do a great job, having the discipline to spend two days planning..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

5 Keys for a Successful 2015

Posted by Ted Skinner on Tue, Jan 13, 2015 @ 09:00 AM

Happy New Year! I hope your 2015 is off to a great start. Isn’t it great to come back to work after a nice refreshing break with a clean..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

When It Comes to Metrics, Who’s on First? (Or is it: What’s on First?)

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Thu, Dec 11, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

One of my favorite comedy routines of all time is Abbott and Costello’s “Who’s on First.” Jerry Seinfeld and friends have an updated..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Do You Have a Financial Rhythm?

Posted by Melissa Perna on Wed, Nov 26, 2014 @ 09:00 AM
  • Are you meeting weekly to discuss Cash forecast runways?
  • Are you having monthly financial reviews with your executive team?
  • Is your..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Enter an Entirely New Market Space & Catch Your Competition Off Guard!

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sun, Nov 16, 2014 @ 12:00 PM

A running joke among my friends and family is that I never met an internal combustion engine I did not like!

I started riding motorcycles..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Four Strategies for Innovation

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Tue, Oct 28, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

“Innovation is seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought.” 

- Albert Szent-Guorgi, 1937 Nobel Prize for..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Top 3 Reasons Annual Planning Sessions Get Off Track

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Oct 14, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

In their webcast last week, coaches Chris Cosper and Cathy McCullough shared the most common reason that CEOs fail to have successful..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning: Tips for Influencing Your Team

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Aug 19, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

I recently watched a webinar with Joseph Grenny and Marshall Goldsmith titled “Level Up: Influence to Get You From Here to There,” and I..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

7 Steps to Ensure a Great Annual Planning Session

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Aug 8, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

It's hard to believe Annual Planning season is just around the corner again!  Many of our teams have already scheduled their dates and are..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How’s Your Quarterly Plan Coming Along? Pay Attention This Week!

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Jul 25, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

Are you ready for weeks 4, 5 and 6? With more than 100,000+ priorities planned and executed in Rhythm, we’ve begun to apply Rhythm research..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Tips for a Strong Summer Quarter

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Jul 9, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

If your company is like ours, then you are heading into a few months with lots of travel and vacation time by different team members at..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

What Should CEOs Focus on During Quarterly Planning Sessions?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Sun, Jul 6, 2014 @ 12:30 PM

The quarterly planning session is a very expensive session. You've got your executive team out of the field for one to two days working..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

2 Most Common Questions about Quarterly Planning

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Jun 27, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

In working with clients recently to prepare for quarterly planning, I noticed a pattern of two questions I am frequently asked. 

Question..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

The "Balance" of Strategic Thinking, Part III

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Wed, Jun 11, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

Setting Sail…

It was a less-than-energetic Strategic Thinking Session (Annual Planning Session) between the executive team members. The..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

The "Balance" of Strategic Thinking, Part II… Strategic Metrics: Are They in Sync?

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Tue, Jun 10, 2014 @ 09:00 AM

The Story: As one CEO boasted to his executive team during a recent Annual Planning Session, "We well exceeded our acquisition goals this..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How Do You Know That Your Plan is Going to Fail Before It Fails?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Mon, May 19, 2014 @ 10:00 AM

What are the early warning signs?

    • The team seems a little confused about what the priorities are. You say “A” and folks seem to think of..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

You Need a Plan B for the Big Stuff!

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, May 14, 2014 @ 03:30 PM

We are almost done with the first half of the quarter. You have a 13-Week Race. How are you doing? Do you have big projects that are..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Why Quarterly Plans Fail: When You Don’t Listen, You Get Rewarded with Bad Execution, Rework and Waste!

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, May 13, 2014 @ 10:30 AM

Most people think of “listening” as a leadership skill. Leaders need to listen to their people. Yes, it is a leadership skill. And it is..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Why Red-Yellow-Greening with Method 1 Does Not Work

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, May 7, 2014 @ 09:30 AM

Every quarter is a 13 Week Race.  Most of us have priorities to deliver and KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to measure our progress. If..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Execution Newsflash! 5 Tips to Help You Pay Special Attention During Weeks 4, 5, and 6

Posted by Patrick Thean on Mon, Apr 21, 2014 @ 12:00 PM

Every quarter is made up of 13 weeks. To be successful, run it like a 13-Week Race. So how is your 13-Week Race coming along? We are about..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Becoming a Trusted Leader

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Fri, Apr 11, 2014 @ 11:00 AM

Polling data indicates that the public (in general) doesn’t trust those in elected leadership positions – and this mistrust sometimes..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Motivate Your Team to Learn

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Mon, Mar 24, 2014 @ 11:00 AM

During times of organizational flux, it can become increasingly difficult to engage your employees in learning.  Across the country and in..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Rhythm 2.0 - Create a Quarterly Plan for Growth

Posted by Ryan Walcott on Mon, Mar 17, 2014 @ 12:18 PM

A winning quarter begins with a winning execution plan.  My last blog showed how to create a killer plan for the new year.  This blog will..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Incorporate Department Level Planning Into Your One-Page Plan

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Fri, Feb 21, 2014 @ 09:30 AM

Those of you who are familiar with and use the One Page Strategic Plan know that Columns 5 and 6 are for your Company’s Quarterly Plan and..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

The Tough Conversation

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Wed, Feb 12, 2014 @ 09:30 AM

I just finished facilitating a Quarterly Planning session where I observed the executive team maturing before my very eyes. An outburst of..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Now Is The Time to Make Critical Adjustments to Achieve Your Quarterly Plan

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Tue, Feb 11, 2014 @ 10:30 AM

You’ve invested the time and energy to come up with a solid plan for the quarter.  You looked at data and forecasts and insights from the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

Keeping Your Team Connected to Your Annual Plan Throughout the Year

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Feb 5, 2014 @ 09:30 AM

Your Annual Plan is complete!  The Main Thing for the year is clear and speaks to the head and heart.  Everyone knows the Annual Key..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

The How of Growth

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Tue, Jan 21, 2014 @ 09:35 AM

I attended the Fortune Growth Summit in October and heard Ram Charan speak.  Ram is a world-renowned business advisor, author and speaker..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Six Strategy Tips and Traps

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Sat, Jan 11, 2014 @ 02:00 PM

A client of mine recently asked me if I had read Playing to Win – How Strategy Really Works by A.G. Lafley and Roger L. Martin.  Lafley is..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

The Golden Question

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Sun, Dec 15, 2013 @ 12:00 PM
When I receive calls from executives who have yet to enter the world of asking a consultative facilitator to help them through an Annual..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Annual Planning… with Feeling!

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Wed, Dec 11, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

As we dive head-first into Annual Planning season, I was helping to review our Do-It-Yourself materials that we provide for Rhythm clients..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Are You Missing a Key Component of Alignment?

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Tue, Dec 10, 2013 @ 11:50 AM

End of year begins a heavy planning period for many of our clients – quarterly planning, annual planning, strategic 3-5 year planning, and..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Rhythm 2.0 - Create a Killer Annual Plan for the New Year

Posted by Ryan Walcott on Mon, Dec 2, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

A winning year begins with a winning execution plan.  My prior blog posts on Rhythm 2.0 focused on how Rhythm helps you with a Think..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Take Your Execution to the Next Level Using Actions

Posted by Jessica Wishart on Mon, Nov 25, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

If you have been using our Rhythm methodology for quarterly planning, you probably have come up with a solid plan complete with SMART..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Gazelle-Like Companies are Learning Organizations

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Tue, Nov 19, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

In the words of Peter Senge, learning organizations are ”organizations where people continually expand their capacity to create the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Annual Planning - Are You Winning on the Basics?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Nov 15, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

Great companies first win on the basics, then they wow you with something special. And that’s the cherry on top! But if you don’t first..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Do You Have the Right Data and Insight for Your Upcoming Annual Planning?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Nov 8, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

How do you prepare for your annual planning session? How do you get the best data and insights to maximize the outcome of your planning..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Your Company's Brain Map

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Wed, Oct 30, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

Creating alignment can be a daunting task for any group of key executives. Great plans are made…activities discussed…task lists..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

How to Create a Healthy Rhythm for Your Company

Posted by Melissa Enriquez on Tue, Oct 29, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

Does it always feel like your team is rushing to setup your annual or quarterly planning sessions? The days go by, and then all of a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Annual Planning: Know What You Want to Do Before You Do Your Budget

Posted by Patrick Thean on Sun, Oct 20, 2013 @ 09:30 AM

What is your approach to developing your execution plan for next year?  Some companies will first develop their budgets and financial..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Are You Getting the Most Out of Your Planning Sessions?

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Tue, Oct 1, 2013 @ 08:03 AM

How are your quarterly and annual planning meetings going?  Are you the one who has to facilitate the meeting each time?  Here are some..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Transforming Company Vision

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Tue, Sep 24, 2013 @ 11:29 AM

Certain kinds of changes are easier to make than others; increasing and decreasing budgets, maintaining strategic alliances, completing a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

How to Eat an Elephant - A Survival Guide for Crucial Conversations

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Sep 18, 2013 @ 08:00 AM

With Q4 just around the corner, many teams are getting ready for their quarterly planning sessions.  During your session, inevitably,..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Quarterly Planning for Companies With 50+ Employees

Posted by Chris Cosper on Mon, Aug 26, 2013 @ 06:43 AM
Quarterly Planning time is upon us again.  In our company, Rhythm Systems, that’s a big deal.  Each one of our consultants will be meeting..
Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

How Do You Execute Through A Crisis and Come Out Stronger and Better?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Aug 2, 2013 @ 12:17 PM

Every company hits a crisis once in a while. It is not a question of whether you will hit one. It's a question of when you will hit one,..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Why Your Company Priorities Should Have a Verb

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, Jun 18, 2013 @ 07:10 AM

With most of my clients feverishly planning for Q3, the subject of what makes a good Company Priority is hot right now.  Here are a few..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Effective Meetings

Finding Hidden Assets in Your Business

Posted by Alan Gehringer on Wed, Apr 17, 2013 @ 07:01 PM

Have you performed an inventory and explored what internal assets you have in your business lately?  Most companies have assets that can..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Create a Snowball Effect with Your Main Thing

Posted by Melissa Enriquez on Tue, Apr 9, 2013 @ 01:26 PM

Imagine your team was put on a mission to create three snowballs that were six feet tall before it gets dark.  The only rule was that the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

How to Develop a Strong Plan for the Quarter Using Rockefeller Habits

Posted by Patrick Thean on Mon, Apr 1, 2013 @ 06:10 PM

Q1 is over.  I like to think of every quarter as a 13 week race.  The only way to have a great year is to have 4 great quarters, one at a..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

Does Your Talent Development Program Measure Up?

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Tue, Mar 12, 2013 @ 07:07 AM

According to a Harvard Business Review study, fully one quarter of the highest-potential people in your company intend to jump ship within..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Run Like a Gazelle! Be A Better Boss

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Mon, Jan 14, 2013 @ 06:16 PM

"Think before you communicate." Simple words with great impact shared with me from the CEO of a Warren Buffet owned company. What new ways..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Three Indicators That You Should Topgrade Your Data

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Tue, Jan 8, 2013 @ 09:48 PM

I’ve been reading the latest publication from Verne Harnish, The Greatest Business Decisions of All Time, and was reminded of several..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Taking Rhythm to the Next Level: Preparing your Team to Cascade

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Jan 2, 2013 @ 09:28 AM

Taking the Rhythm methodology to the next level of management is a great way to achieve alignment throughout the organization and provide..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Communicating Your Annual Plan to the Rest of the Company

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, Dec 18, 2012 @ 04:49 PM

At this time of year, companies are investing massive amounts of resources in an effective Annual Planning Session.  Executive teams are..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning: An Inspiring Destination Postcard

Posted by Patrick Thean on Tue, Dec 11, 2012 @ 08:51 AM

Simms Fishing is an amazing company with a truly inspiring year ahead of them.  Their uncompromising desire to put out the highest quality..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Is Your Growth Strategy Proactive or Reactive?

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Mon, Dec 10, 2012 @ 02:21 PM

Everything looks like a failure in the middle. Sometimes the path to success can feel like a failure - and sometimes failure is a part of..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Doing What Matters: Linking Strategy to Execution in a Way That Works

Posted by Barry Pruitt on Thu, Dec 6, 2012 @ 08:33 AM

Doing What Matters, by James Kilts (Three Rivers Press, 2010), is an update of the frank-talking and insightful original released in 2007...

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Set Great Expectations for Your Annual Planning

Posted by Chris Cosper on Wed, Dec 5, 2012 @ 12:31 PM

Bringing your team together for a few days of Annual Planning requires a big investment of time, energy and money.  You may have flown..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Are You Having Enough Discussions in Your Annual Planning Session?

Posted by Patrick Thean on Mon, Dec 3, 2012 @ 04:58 PM

So, it's annual planning time, and your folks are getting together for the much anticipated planning session.  The meeting begins, and we..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Turn Your Onboarding Process Into a Competitive Advantage

Posted by Chris Cosper on Tue, Nov 13, 2012 @ 10:53 AM

So, you take Jim Collins’ First Who, Then What principle seriously.  You invest a tremendous amount of time sourcing and selecting the..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Setting Your Sales Team Up For Success

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Wed, Nov 7, 2012 @ 01:12 AM

Recently, I have been working with many Rhythm clients who are cascading to their sales teams.  The first question I get is this: "We have..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Work On Your 20 Mile March During Annual Planning

Posted by Patrick Thean on Wed, Oct 10, 2012 @ 08:30 AM

Jim Collins talks about the 20 mile march in chapter 4 of his book "Great By Choice".  If you have not read this book yet, you should...

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning

Annual Planning: The Power of a Great Annual Planning Facilitator

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Oct 4, 2012 @ 09:09 PM

Annual Planning is one of the most important things you and your executive team will do this Fall.  It sets the stage for the next year..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Skate to Where the Puck is Going During Annual Planning

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, Oct 4, 2012 @ 01:10 PM

We are getting into Q4.  It is a good time to begin thinking about what the plan for the next year is going to be.  Consider how you will..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Understanding "What" to Do, But Not Sure "How" to Execute

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Thu, Sep 13, 2012 @ 10:30 AM

Most companies are notoriously good at creating wonderful strategic plans each year.  They'll spend a couple of days hashing through..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Why Growth Companies Must Make Hard People Decisions

Posted by Cathy McCullough on Thu, Aug 16, 2012 @ 08:32 AM

Recent conversations with CEOs have reminded me of an age-old challenge in organizations: People. After a recent telephone consultation..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Revisit Your Strategy In Quarterly Planning

Posted by Kristi Burns on Wed, Jun 20, 2012 @ 08:20 AM

Quarterly Planning sessions are meant to define key initiatives that will be focused on over the next 90 days in support of your..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Don't Let the Summer Slump Derail Your BHAG

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, Jun 14, 2012 @ 06:46 AM

Wouldn't it be great to walk in the office on the first day of summer and tell your entire team to take the next 3 months off?  While an..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

When Your Quarterly Planning Doesn't Follow the Plan

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Thu, May 10, 2012 @ 10:00 AM

It’s Week 7 and your star Sales Director just quit, your biggest customer is asking for a discount (or else) and your General Counsel just..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning

Get Aligned! Don't let Elephants Derail Your Business Execution!

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Apr 13, 2012 @ 09:30 AM

Q2 has already started.  We should all be off and running on our 13 week race.  Strong business execution needs a good rhythm.  I like to..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution, Accountable Leaders & Teams

Keep Your Red-Yellow-Greens Short & Sweet

Posted by Tiffany Chepul on Tue, Apr 3, 2012 @ 09:11 PM

Setting SMART Red-Yellow-Green success criteria is challenging enough, but now you want me to fit it into 30 characters or less? ..

Read More

Topics: Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards

So You Have A Strategic Annual Plan - Now What?

Posted by Ryan Walcott on Fri, Feb 10, 2012 @ 06:13 AM

So you have a strategic plan?  That's awesome!  Congratulations!  You are doing better than the majority of the companies doing business..

Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Annual Planning Tips

Posted by Patrick Thean on Fri, Jan 6, 2012 @ 12:03 PM
Happy New Year to our friends and customers!  Here is to a great 2012.
 
As you begin your new year, here are a couple of ideas and..
Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, KPIs & Dashboards, Strategy Execution

Using A Start Stop Keep Tool To Make Your Mid Year Adjustments

Posted by Patrick Thean on Thu, Jun 16, 2011 @ 12:17 PM
After our webcast on Mid Year adjustments, I received a couple more questions regarding using the SSK tool.  Thought I would share them on..
Read More

Topics: Strategies for Growth, Annual & Quarterly Planning, Strategy Execution

Load more posts

Book your personalized demo

Or Pick a Date Now