Being a business owner or manager is no walk in the park. Amidst a sea of information overflowing with theories and strategies, OKR – a term that’s probably not unfamiliar in the modern business world – might sometimes give you a headache, right?
But don’t worry, it’s not always as “hard” as you think. Here are 5 OKR bite-sized tips to help you turn them from mere words on paper into the keys to your success, presented in the most “chill” way possible! Let’s go!
Tip 1: Learn, Learn and Learn More!
First and foremost, your team needs to really know what they’re doing – meaning they have expertise and never stop learning. Just like you can’t go far without gas in your car, OKRs also need the “fuel” of knowledge to run.
Mini example: Imagine a team of programmers decides to “tear down and rebuild” their app to enhance user experience. If your team has been “updating” their knowledge regularly, they’ll know AI is the “hot trend” and apply it to predict what customers need. “Bam!” Key Results achieved, users are happy, and you’re… relieved.
Tip 2: “Can-do” Attitude and “Ownership”
Your team needs to have a “can-do” spirit and a high level of “ownership.” This means they’re ready to jump into the vast ocean without fear of getting “wet”.
Not-so-big example: A manager decides to double online sales. She doesn’t wait for anyone to tell her what to do, she takes the initiative to find ways to attract customers through social media. When OKRs are due, not only do sales increase, but the team’s morale gets a “boost” too!
Take ownership of yourself and your work
Tip 3: Trial & Error – The Game of “Keeping Calm and Carrying On”
Experimentation and mistakes are inevitable when implementing OKRs. Sometimes you need to “embrace” these mistakes to learn and grow. But by learning from mistakes, we can quickly identify and find improved solutions for the next time.
Just another tiny example: Let’s say you’re testing a new marketing campaign and realize… oh no, customers aren’t interested at all. Instead of blaming fate, you review the OKRs, adjust, and continue. After a few “stumbles,” you’ll find the right approach and finally “catch the wave” of your customers’ true needs.
Tip 4: Empower All Departments
Make sure everyone in the organization is “rowing” in the same direction. When all departments are connected and support each other, OKRs become a harmonious symphony, not just a solo.
Bite-sized example: Imagine your Marketing and IT departments as a “duet” in a band. Marketing sets the melody with a new campaign, and IT keeps the rhythm by optimizing the website. The result? Customers flock in, and OKRs are on track!
Tip 5: Feedback is the “Golden Key”
Don’t let your employees “drive without knowing the way.” Regular feedback is how they know where they are and what they need to do to reach the destination.
Sweetest example ever: Every month, you “schedule” a “chat” with your employees about OKRs. Like a friend, you suggest ways they can improve and share the joy of their achievements.
This way, everyone works towards bigger goals with reinforced confidence and motivation. A good feedback mechanism can turn every meeting into a dynamic brainstorming session where ideas sprout and flourish.
The golden key named “Feedback”
Behind Every OKR is a United Team
The success of OKRs doesn’t just come from setting goals and measuring results. Behind it is a team with self-learning capabilities, a strong company culture, and close connections between everyone. Don’t forget that each OKR needs flexibility to adapt to your specific context and goals.
Remember, implementing OKRs is sometimes like playing a video game – you need a strategy, quick reflexes, and you shouldn’t be afraid to “replay” when needed.
Last but not least, “enjoy the game” is the keyword. Enjoy the journey with OKRs and your team, because that’s the secret to not only your own happiness but also the sustainable growth of your business.
