Sell the benefit of using the strategic planning process

As a strategic planning facilitator, I learned many operators are more concerned about aligning to the current direction than planning for the future. Strategic planning is not their thing. To engage folks, to get them to dedicate their time, these excutives recommended:

	Let people know benefits for them and the company
	Reward and recognition for achievements that were planned and far exceeded expectations
	CEO mandate, top down
	Give ownership to the key players who will do the planning
	Emphasize the value of a team process
	Let an outside expert or consultant lay out the facts
	Respond to an outside threat
	Support your case with facts, industry findings, experts, peer group
	Educate, communicate