At our company, the annual meeting, or year kick-off, is a fixed part of the start of the year. Every year, we come together not only to reflect on the past year's achievements but also to look ahead to our goals and ambitions. It's a moment where we tell our story: what we've accomplished, where we stand now, and where we want to go.
While we often help other organizations communicate their yearly strategy, it feels extra special to do this for our own team. If you ask us, a great annual meeting is just as important for a company with 15 employees as it is for a company with 1,500 or 15,000. It's an opportunity to not only set the direction but also to start the year with plenty of energy and a shared focus.
Every year, we learn something new about how we can make the annual meeting even better. Here are a few insights that have helped us a lot:
1. Take the Presentation Seriously
We treat our internal presentation as if it's for an external client. A well-thought-out, professional presentation ensures the team not only understands our strategy but also feels it. By putting effort into this, we immediately set the tone for the rest of the year.
2. Encourage Engagement
We’ve learned that an interactive approach is key. In addition to presenting the strategy, we engage the team by organizing workshops and leaving space for questions. This ensures everyone feels heard and any concerns are addressed right away.
3. Add Smart Variety in Speakers
We mix up the speakers to keep the program lively, but we do this thoughtfully. Changing speakers too often can be distracting. We choose speakers based on their specific expertise and their ability to tell a story that resonates.
4. Tell the Story Behind the Numbers
One of the most valuable lessons for us was not just presenting numbers, but linking them to stories. Why are the results what they are? What can we learn from real-life examples? And how do we bring our vision for the coming year to life? This approach makes the strategy more tangible and accessible.
5. Make It a Celebration
For us, the annual meeting isn't just a strategy session–it's also a chance to celebrate the new year together. An inspiring venue, fun activities, and a theme that ties into our strategic pillars make it not just intellectually strong, but also a day we look forward to.
6. Keep the Strategy Alive
We’ve realized that sharing a vision during the annual meeting alone isn’t enough. That’s why we revisit this strategy every quarter to track our progress. Consistently repeating and reflecting on what we discussed at the annual meeting keeps our goals sharp and relevant.
Our Goal: A Strong Start and Lasting Focus
We’re curious about how you approach this. Do you have questions, insights, or a unique method that works well for you? We’re always eager to learn from others!
