Set Clear Objectives First
A successful advance moves your team away from daily routine, phone calls and distractions. Focused entirely on the objectives that will genuinely move your firm's goals forward. That focus requires real leadership from top management in both planning and running the session.
Build Communication and Teamwork
A group that has not worked together very long or very closely can use an advance to build real lines of communication and establish genuine relationships among its members, well beyond what daily office interaction alone would create.
Follow a Few Simple Rules
Keep the dress and atmosphere informal, keep the group small enough that everyone genuinely participates, arrange seating so people feel part of the group, eat meals together and make sure everyone stays for the entire session from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
A strategic advance held once a year gives every owner a real sense of involvement, motivation and shared purpose that daily operations rarely provide on their own. Knowing your specific objectives before the advance begins is essential or the time and money invested can slip away without lasting impact. Consider scheduling your firm's next advance this year and start by writing down exactly what you want it to accomplish.
