The document discusses the significance of strategic thinking for managers, emphasizing its importance in achieving long-term objectives and gaining a competitive advantage. It outlines the relationship between strategic management training and the development of strategic thinking skills, providing recommendations for effective training programs. Key suggestions include clearly defined learning objectives, real-world applications, meaningful feedback, and ongoing learning support.

1. Debbie Narver, BSc MBA MScIB
Strategic Management Instructor at NMC Strategic Manager
How to Develop Strategic Thinking Skills for Managers

2. How can managers develop skills in strategic
thinking?
We first need to understand what it is and why it’s
important.
We’ll then look at the relationship to strategic
management training.
And finally, I will provide some recommendations for
moving forward.

3. What IS Strategic Thinking in Management?
Consider & plan for
broader, long range
objectives.
Recognize &
navigate the
complex inter-
dependencies in the
business world

4. Move from reactive to proactive

5. Why Strategic Thinking is important
Big picture perspective
Achieve competitive
advantage.
Stay aware of the
potential disruptive,
game changing events.

6. “
”
We found that a strategic approach to
leadership was, on average, 10 times more
important to the perception of effectiveness
than other behaviors studied. It was twice as
important as communication (the second most
important behavior) and almost 50 times more
important than hands-on tactical behaviors.”
This article by Robert Kabacoff in the Harvard Business Review summarizes research by Management
Research Group (MRG 2013) providing evidence of the importance of strategic thinking.
(source https://hbr.org/2014/02/develop-strategic-thinkers-throughout-your-organization)

7. How do we develop Strategic Thinking?
Strategic thinking in
management requires both
tangible/technical
(strategic management)
and “soft”/emotional
(leadership).

8. Shifting managers perspectives
It may require managers to shift
their identity from doers to
thinkers. This can be
challenging, both intellectually
and emotionally. We tend to
have an identity that has been
established over time. And we
can have deeply ingrained ways
of thinking.

9. One approach is to start
with a focus on the more
technical and tangible
Strategic Management skills

10. Strategic Thinking and Strategic Management
Strategic Management provides the structure for
strategic thinking in organizations.
It includes common language (vision, mission, values,
performance measures, etc……). .
It’s provides a framework to achieve goals and vision

11. So where to start with Strategic Management
Training?
What exactly IS
Strategic
Management?
And what specific
skills are required?

12. Components of Strategic Management
Ultimately, all these
activities are
important to long
term success

13. Ensure your strategic management training is effective
My 5 tips to selecting the right program

14. Look for clearly defined learning objectives
What will participants
be able to DO as a
result of the course?
Beware of vague
promises.

15. Make sure there’s an evaluation component
How will participants know if
the objectives have been
met?
Should include a self
evaluation component, and
other methods to test skill.

16. Make sure there is an applied component
Theory alone doesn’t develop leadership
skills. There needs to be some exercises
(such as case studies) for participants to
simulate how they would use techniques
in the real world.

17. Make sure feedback is meaningful
Perhaps a tool like a 360 survey
or structured evaluation can
provide insights. Or perhaps a
trusted mentor. But be sure to
find the RIGHT tool or person
that can give you meaningful and
helpful guidance.

18. Set up for Continuous Learning
Don’t expect skills to happen
overnight. You may need to do
in smaller increments, and take
time to practice in the real
world. Maybe keep a journal to
track your progress? And be
sure to celebrate success!

19. Summary on Strategic Thinking for Managers
1. These skills are very important for organizations. But they
are complex and can be difficult to train for and measure.
2. Strategic Management skills are more tangible, and can
provide a framework for developing strategic thinking skills.
3. Look for strategic management training with specific learning
objectives, real world application and evaluation tools.
4. Make sure participants receive meaningful feedback, and
support for continuous learning.

20. Learn more about Strategic Management
Development and Training for Managers
www.nmcstrategicmanager.com