Execution is more than just aspirations or strategies, its results. Execution is the core element of your company’s culture. According to Larry Bossidy’s (CEO of Honeywell), Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done, Bossidy states that Execution lies in three core processes which are the people process, the strategy process, and the operations process. Company leaders are charged with the three core processes by other leaders within the organization, preparing the strategic direction, and overseeing the entire operation.

Leaders have to instill execution in the company’s culture and processes for executing. So, how does a great leader introduce Execution to their staff? Well, the leader would coach her staff, educate them, and encourage them to think outside-the-box. Execution has to be embedded in the company’s culture and in day-to-day practices. There really is no way of getting around it. Just by having an idea of Execution isn’t going to cut it because leaders have to be actively involved in the process.

Execution Difference

The Execution Difference is actually converting your company’s vision into a specific action plan by determining “HOW” to get things done. In other words, just by creating a strategy, the next big idea, or having a dream does not constitute Execution.

How to Execute

In order for leaders to execute effectively, they must know how-to execute.

1. Involve all key players in the business and have them set goals on the organization’s ability to deliver results.
2. The senior leaders would ask her team “how” will they execute this action plan and find out all the details about deadlines, target costs, and quality goals.
3. You have to set milestones and hold all key players accountable that are in charge.

Other significant aspects of Execution for leaders are what Bossidy calls “The Leaders Seven Essential Behaviors” which are:

1. Know your people and your business
2. Insist on realism
3. Set clear goals and priorities
4. Follow through
5. Reward the doers
6. Expand peoples’ capabilities
7. Know yourself

I think Colin Powell said it best when he stated, “Effective leaders “Keep it Simple” and are actively involved in their organizations. They articulate vivid, over-arching goals and values, which they use to drive daily behaviors and choices among competing alternatives. The result is: clarity of purpose, credibility of leadership, and integrity in your organization.”

Now go out there and Execute!