In OKRs: Strategy with Teeth, Janet Bumstead and Mark Dailey present a compelling case for using Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) as a strategic framework to drive clarity, alignment, and measurable impact across organizations. Far from being a trendy management tool, OKRs help leaders translate vision into action by setting bold objectives and tracking progress through specific, outcome-focused key results. The article outlines practical steps for successful implementation—starting small, securing buy-in, and prioritizing ruthlessly—while also warning against common pitfalls like confusing OKRs with KPIs or treating them as task lists. With real-world examples and department-specific OKRs, the authors show how this approach can transform strategy from static plans into dynamic execution.
Read MoreIn “KPIs: The Executive’s Compass,” Janet Bumstead and Mark Dailey argue that Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are not just metrics—they’re strategic tools that help executives navigate complexity, align teams, and drive meaningful results. The article distinguishes KPIs from general metrics, emphasizing their role in measuring impact, guiding decisions, and linking daily actions to strategic goals. It outlines best practices for selecting, reviewing, and managing KPIs across organizational levels, and warns against common pitfalls like data overload and misalignment. Ultimately, KPIs are presented as leadership levers that foster clarity, agility, and accountability.
Read MoreMetrics matter most when they’re tied to strategy, not just tracked for reporting. In Making Metrics Matter, Janet Bumstead and Mark Dailey argue that metrics, especially KPIs, should serve as strategic tools that drive clarity, accountability, and performance across an organization. They outline a practical framework for selecting SMART metrics, aligning them with business goals, and embedding them into decision-making processes. The article emphasizes simplicity, relevance, and team involvement, while cautioning against common pitfalls like over-measuring or relying solely on numbers. Ultimately, metrics should illuminate where you are and guide where you’re headed.
Read MoreIn Forecast or Fantasy?, Mark Dailey and I emphasize that real strategic planning starts with real numbers—not wishful thinking. As a RevOps strategist, I’ve seen how aligning finance and sales around grounded revenue targets can transform execution. Optimism is great, but it needs a reality check—especially when “happy ears” inflate forecasts. I encourage leaders to learn from past wins and failures, focus on the offerings that truly drive growth, and set SMART goals that bring clarity and accountability. Planning with purpose means turning vision into measurable results—and the best time to start is now.
Read MoreA recent message I received said only: “Janet?”
No context. No greeting. No clarity. Twice — from a seasoned sales pro.
As a RevOps leader and CustomerCentric Selling® (CCS) educator, I see this often. Sales is about connection. RevOps ensures those connections are clear, respectful, and valuable.
In CCS, effective communication is rooted in:
🌿 Respect
🌿 Relevance
🌿 Clarity
🌿 Value
A vague follow-up shifts the burden to the recipient — that’s self-centric, not customer-centric.
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Let’s raise the bar. Follow-ups should build trust, not erode it.
Read MoreAI is changing education, but not always for the better. In my classrooms, students who rely heavily on AI often struggle when asked to think independently. As AWS CEO Matt Garman recently noted, critical thinking is the most essential skill in the AI age. I’m redesigning my courses to help students build that skill because in a world full of smart tools, it’s thoughtful humans who will lead.
Read MoreToday, while watching a podcast, I found myself distracted—not by what was being said, but by what was behind the speaker. A fully stocked home bar dominated the frame, sending a message that clashed with the conversation. In our increasingly virtual world, these visual cues matter more than ever.
Whether you're a student, a professional, or a podcast guest, your background speaks before you do. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about presence. An unmade bed, cluttered shelves, or poor lighting can undermine your message. On the flip side, a clean, intentional setup can elevate your credibility and show respect for your audience.
Presence is a practice. And in the digital age, your background is part of your brand. Show up with intention. It makes all the difference.
Read MoreToo often, leadership teams chase numbers without clarity, or strategy. In our latest article, co-authored by Janet Bumstead of Enroot Strategies and Mark Dailey of Newport LLC, we unpack the real value behind OKRs, KPIs, and metrics, and how to use them to drive alignment, accountability, and growth.
If your team is setting goals without a clear “why,” this is a must-read.
Read MoreIn a world full of strong opinions, we explore how combining data, insight, and critical thinking leads to better outcomes, whether in leadership, HR, product, or marketing.
Read MoreIn a world full of strong opinions, its data, clear, objective, and aligned with strategy, that separates good intentions from great outcomes.
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