What is your SQ?

The Importance of Strategic Thinking in Leadership

In the world of business, being labeled as strategic is the ultimate compliment for a leader. Research has shown that 97 percent of senior executives believe that strategic behavior is the most critical for an organization’s future success. In fact, a strategic approach to leadership has been found to be ten times more important to perceived effectiveness than any other factor studied.

Quotes on the Significance of Strategic Acumen

Industry leaders and experts emphasize the importance of strategic acumen:

“To me, strategic acumen is the single most important skill every leader needs today.” – Indra Nooyi, former CEO of Pepsi.

“After twenty years of observation, it is clear that mastering strategy is not an innate skill. Most great CEOs learn how to become better strategic thinkers.” – David Yoffie, professor at Harvard Business School.

“The most important characteristic of active CEOs that makes them attractive board candidates is strategic expertise.” – Research into the Board of Directors of companies.

“The No. 1 Capabilities Boards Look for in a CEO: Strategic Capabilities.” – Cathy Anterasian, Senior Partner, Spencer Stuart.

Strategic thinking is a universal trait that drives value creation, leading to benefits and profits for organizations. The Strategic Quotient Assessment (SQ) measures an individual’s strategic capabilities based on their mindset and behavior.

Measuring Strategic Thinking with the SQ Assessment

The SQ is grounded in the 3A framework, focusing on three critical disciplines:

• • Acumen (thinking) – Generating insights to create new value.

• • Allocation (planning) – Concentrating resources through strategic trade-offs.

• • Action (Acting) – Prioritizing and executing initiatives.

The SQ Assessment evaluates an individual’s performance in these disciplines through 50 statements, indicating their strategic thinking, planning, and action abilities. By understanding and applying these disciplines, individuals can enhance their strategic capabilities.

Primary and secondary dimensions of the strategic quotient

Improving strategic capabilities is achievable through deliberate practice. Just as IQ secures employment and EQ leads to promotions, SQ is the key to reaching the C-suite.

For those looking to assess their strategic capabilities and enhance their SQ score, the Strategic Quotient assessment at StrategySkills.com offers valuable insights.

The strategic fitness system

Executives seeking to elevate their strategic thinking can benefit from the Strategic Fitness System. This advanced executive development platform provides access to over 50 strategic training courses and 200 resources in Strategy, Leadership, Organization, and Communication. Visit Strategic-Fitness-System.com to subscribe and start enhancing your strategic fitness today.