Strategies for Showcasing Your Strategic Leadership Skills, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article explores how leaders can demonstrate their strategic thinking skills to key stakeholders through various actions and outputs. It first defines strategic thinking and its main components, including environmental scanning, future orientation, synthesis, adaptability, and intuition. The article then discusses how leaders can communicate strategic thinking through comprehensive yet accessible strategic planning documents, ongoing messaging and communication about strategies and progress, effectively managing organizational change, strategic decision-making, and fostering continuous learning. Specific best practices and examples are provided for each area. The article aims to provide concrete guidance for leaders seeking to exemplify their strategic orientation in tangible ways. Developing a consistent repertoire of actions emphasizing environmental scanning, future visioning and adaptation can help leaders and organizations strengthen their strategic dexterity to navigate today's dynamic business environment.