Got Vision?

Shared vision is not a poster on the wall or a catchy tag line in your marketing materials. It’s a collective state of mind that unifies many views into one vision, inspiring people and focusing effort. Four defining characteristics tell the story:

Clear Picture – not a vague aspiration that is subject to endless individual interpretations but a concrete, understandable view
Future Success – not constrained by today’s realities, the picture breaks through the comfort zone of the status quo towards a compelling tomorrow
Widely Owned – not a top-down mandate or a solution owned by a small group of champions, shared vision is internalized and enriched by those whose efforts will make it come true
Personally Felt – not just a rational statement, a sustainable vision connects to the heart as well as the head.

If you don't have all four elements working for you, your vision isn't working for you either. Don't bank on your own assumptions - ask around to see if you've hit the mark.

Our vision is compelling - why isn't it shared?

You likely have one or more Vision Blockers^(tm) working against you.

Stuck at the Top - A well intended leader or team of leaders has set its sight on the target and mapped out a plan. No matter how smart or how compelling, the team won't set sail with you if they don't see the vision as their own.

Not linked and synched - When different teams have different visions, missed opportunities and conflicting decisions abound. Whether it's marketing, manufacturing and R&D or fundraising and service delivery, be sure to connect the dots.

Caught in the middle - A task force or projet team creates an exciting vision that will help the entire organization. The group works hard for the benefit of all, but can get too far ahead of the pack. Initiative fizzle and frustration sets.

Dated - Your vision has served you well. But that was then...this is now. Markets, technology, people - they've all changed. Is it time for a vision renewal?

Vague - Sure, it sounds enticing to be the world class supplier and preferred employer. But if you want your vision to matter, be sure it tells YOUR unique story.

How can I get vision?

Open up the vision dialogue - up, down and across the organzation. The vision that gets traction is the one that the whole team is excited about moving ahead. So have the courage to let go, give it some time and see what unfolds. We are confident you will get further faster than you will simply updating your poster and coffee cup slogans.

There’s no better time than now to take make sure you are building shared vision – and reaping all the benefits that come with it! Need help? Contact VisonFirst to learn more about Vision-in-a-Box® our unique rapid visioning process.