Strategic Planning
Strategic Planning is a structured process that organizations use to set long-term goals and create action plans to achieve them. It's like creating a roadmap for a company's future. Similar terms include "business planning" or "corporate strategy." When someone lists Strategic Planning on their resume, they've likely been involved in helping organizations figure out where they want to go and how to get there. This might include analyzing market trends, setting company goals, and developing step-by-step plans to achieve these goals.
Examples in Resumes
Led Strategic Planning sessions resulting in 30% revenue growth over 2 years
Facilitated annual Strategic Planning and Business Strategy workshops for executive team
Developed Strategic Plan that expanded company operations into 3 new markets
Implemented Corporate Strategy and Strategic Planning initiatives across 5 business units
Typical job title: "Strategic Planners"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Strategic Planners
Professional Associations
Online Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a time when you led a strategic planning process that significantly impacted an organization?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership in creating comprehensive strategic plans, including stakeholder engagement, analysis of market conditions, and successful implementation with measurable results.
Q: How do you ensure strategic plans are actually implemented rather than just sitting on a shelf?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should include methods for tracking progress, creating accountability, regular review processes, and adapting plans when needed.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools and frameworks do you use in strategic planning?
Expected Answer: Candidates should mention common tools like SWOT analysis, balanced scorecards, or scenario planning, and explain how they've used them in real situations.
Q: How do you involve different departments in the strategic planning process?
Expected Answer: Look for experience in gathering input from various stakeholders, facilitating planning sessions, and ensuring buy-in across departments.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What do you think are the key elements of a good strategic plan?
Expected Answer: Should mention basics like clear goals, measurable objectives, timeline, resource allocation, and alignment with company mission.
Q: How do you gather and analyze data for strategic planning?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic research methods, market analysis, competitive analysis, and how to present findings clearly.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Data collection and analysis
- Basic market research
- Project coordination
- Meeting facilitation
Mid (3-5 years)
- Strategic plan development
- Stakeholder management
- Project management
- Performance tracking
Senior (5+ years)
- Executive-level planning
- Change management
- Strategic leadership
- Corporate governance
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with actual plan implementation
- Unable to provide examples of measurable results
- Lack of experience with stakeholder engagement
- Poor understanding of business metrics and KPIs
