How to Align Your Business

This week the Wily Manager guys discuss Zombies and Orphans, and how these things can be a leading indicator of a misaligned organization.  Don’t know what Zombie Projects and Orphan Initiatives are?  Read on.

Monday’s Tip: Have SMART Goals at every level of the organization. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely Goals for all levels, departments, and individuals are a prerequisite for an aligned organization.

Tuesday’s Tip: Hold People Accountable. Once people understand what they need to be doing through well articulated goals, they need to be held accountable for those goals.

Wednesday’s Tip: Discuss goals at every meeting. Departmental and one on one meetings should be used to refine and make progress on goals.

Thursday’s Tip: Know what your boss’s goals are. If you don’t understand in detail what your boss’s goals are, and ensure your goals will ultimately help her achieve hers, you stand no chance of being aligned.

Friday’s Tip: Be on the lookout for signs of misalignment: Zombie projects, orphan projects, failure to improve, and people working at the wrong level are all clear indicators of organizational misalignment.  Be aware.