There appears to be confusion about the tactics and strategies in the entrepreneurial and small and medium sized business world.

In our experience and training sessions, we define the difference this way:

The strategy is to become a global company — the big picture/road map 

The tactics are deciding why, where and when to begin — the actual action steps that take you there

Whether you are growing an existing business, think about the strategies first. In the startup stage tactics — action steps — might be the only thing that keeps your business alive. At one point there will have to be a balance between tactics and strategies if there is to be continued growth.

What action steps need to take place today versus those that might take days, weeks or months?

If the strategy is to become a global company, take one idea and run with it. The tactics could be in response to questions such as:

• Do I have a website that could address the new branch?

• Do I have a contact in that new city or country?

• What do I need to do to make that happen?

• What community, committees, or big ideas do I need to be involved with?

They are two parts of a single formula, so to speak:

1. Define the strategy — the road map to where you want to go

2. Define the tactics — the steps you need to take to implement the strategy

BEFORE YOU GO

We see our blogs as opportunities for dialogue. Please share your thoughts as comments.

1. What strategy have you set for you business?

2. What tactics will you employ to implement that strategy?

3. What other tools have you used to define your strategy and tactics?