At the core of every high-performing organization is clarity of purpose and alignment of strategy. Without these, teams drift, decisions splinter, and energy scatters. In this article, we explore two skills that help leaders create both the “why” and the “how” that guide every action:
- Skill 43 – Facilitate Consensus on Mission, Vision & Purpose
- Skill 44 – Facilitate Strategy Consensus Building
Skill 43 – Facilitate Consensus on Mission, Vision & Purpose
Definition
The skill of developing and facilitating agreement among stakeholders regarding the team and organization’s mission, vision, and purpose—ensuring there is a shared understanding and buy-in on a compelling “big picture.”
Why it matters
- Alignment fuels acceleration. When everyone understands where they’re going and why, decisions become easier and faster.
- Purpose inspires ownership. People commit more deeply to what they help co-create.
- Consensus builds trust. Inviting input fosters engagement and reduces resistance to change.
How to implement
- Facilitate a workshop with team members to explore:
- Mission: Why do we exist?
- Vision: Where are we going?
- Purpose: What difference are we here to make?
- Capture real language. Avoid jargon. Use words that resonate with the team.
- Test for understanding. Ask, “Can each member describe this in their own words?”
- Document and display the final version prominently.
- Integrate into daily life. Use the mission/vision/purpose to guide decisions and feedback.
Practice Activity – Alignment Circle
Divide your team into small groups. Ask each to create a one-sentence version of the team’s mission, vision, and purpose. Compare drafts, discuss differences, and co-create a unified version together.
Skill 44 – Facilitate Strategy Consensus Building
Definition
The ability to facilitate consensus with stakeholders regarding specific strategies and action plans, providing a blueprint to achieve the team and organizational vision.
Why it matters
- Strategy is the bridge from vision to execution. Without agreement on how to get there, even the best vision falters.
- Shared strategy creates focus. Teams stay on course and avoid fragmented efforts.
- Consensus reduces friction. Decisions are implemented with fewer roadblocks and more energy.
How to implement
- Clarify the end goal. Reaffirm the shared mission and vision.
- Identify strategic priorities. What 3–5 focus areas will move the needle most?
- Facilitate open dialogue. Encourage honest debate on risks, resources, and impact.
- Narrow down options collaboratively. Use dot voting, prioritization matrices, or structured discussion.
- Confirm commitments. Ensure clear ownership of each strategy component.
Authors Note: Consensus does not mean that everyone or 100% of the team members will be in agreement. Even agreeing to disagree is part of the consensus process. However, it does mean that the team members at least will go along with the majority and agree to not sabotage the teams direction or the execution of the plans.
Practice Tool – Strategy Mapping Session
Create a large visual map with the vision at the top and key strategies branching underneath. Include who owns what and the first steps required. Review this map in every planning meeting. There are many online tools or apps that can help you with this today.
From Ideals to Implementation |
