As we approach a new year, it’s a natural time to reflect and set goals—not just for ourselves, but for our organizations. Leaders have a unique opportunity to make bold resolutions that inspire progress, drive differentiation, and elevate their organizations to new heights. Staying ahead in today’s ever-evolving world will require intentional effort, innovation, and resilience over these next 12 months.
Below, I’ve outlined 10 concepts for leaders to consider as they set goals for 2025. Based on my conversations with many industry leaders over this past year, these are areas that are top of mind at the executive level to assist in starting off 2025 strong. I believe these steps will help you navigate complexity and position your organization for sustained success.
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Develop or Refine Your Corporate Strategy
If you don’t have a corporate strategy, now is the time to create one. A well-defined strategy is your organization’s roadmap to success, especially in a year of anticipated turbulence in the economy, trade politics, and social policy. Now is the time to define your organization’s values and goals. For those who already have a strategy in place, establish a robust process to monitor progress. At a minimum, review and adjust your strategy quarterly to ensure you’re staying on track.
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Set (or re-establish) the Tone at the Top
As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the entire organization. Stay connected with your workforce, lead by example, and ensure your leadership team embodies the organization’s values. Get out there and talk to your people! Employees notice when their leaders are engaged and authentic, and high performing organizations have visible, trustworthy leaders.
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Understand and Manage Your Data
Data is one of your most valuable assets. Take the time to understand what data your organization possesses, where it’s stored, and how long it’s retained. This foundational step will help you be better prepared for the rising tide of artificial intelligence (AI).
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Embrace Artificial Intelligence
Speaking of AI, it isn’t just for tech companies—it’s beginning to demonstrate that it can be a tool for every organization. Even small-scale adoption can yield significant benefits, and small steps are better than none. Find ways that you can incorporate AI tools into your operations and measure their effectiveness and your employees’ willingness to embrace them.
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Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
What gets measured gets done. Identify the KPIs that align with your strategic goals and use them to track progress regularly. Whether your focus is operational efficiency, financial growth, or employee engagement, measurable outcomes will drive accountability and improvement. And guess what? We have more data available to us than ever before. It’s time to start putting it to work.
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Engage in Scenario Planning
This will likely be a year of uncertainty in many ways. Good or bad, it is always best to prepare for uncertainty by planning for different scenarios. Consider what would happen if your organization’s performance were 10% better—or 10% worse—than expected. This exercise often helps leaders make more informed decisions and equips their organizations to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
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Create a Cash Flow Forecast Model
Cash flow management is critical for long-term stability. Develop a cash flow forecast to identify periods of potential financial strain or opportunity. Understanding your organization’s financial ebbs and flows will allow you to plan investments wisely.
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Update Policies and Procedures
Finance and operations teams should review and update policies and procedures annually. This ensures that your organization is compliant, efficient, and prepared for future challenges.
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Succession Planning
Implement succession planning strategies to proactively prepare for turnover and retirements, particularly at the executive and leadership levels. A helpful question to begin with is: “Is this organization ready if I were to leave tomorrow?” As a key contributor to your organization’s operations and success, it’s critical to ensure that your departure won’t completely ground operations. Look to your leadership teams and talent pipeline within the organization to understand who is in the on-deck circle and have a plan in place for them to step up when needed.
And finally, my most impactful 2025 resolution:
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Delegate More
Free up your time for more organizational planning and strategy by delegating at least 10% more of your current responsibilities. Empower your team and give yourself more bandwidth to focus on better connections, enhanced communication and clearer strategy; objectives that will help the most in shaping your organization’s future.
How We Can Help
At The Bonadio Group, we’re committed to helping you unlock the full potential of your organization. From strategic planning to operational efficiency, we’re here to support your journey to excellence.
If you need further guidance or have any questions on this topic, please do not hesitate to reach out to discuss your specific situation. And be sure to check out our Leader’s Guide to Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Organization for more information!
This material has been prepared for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. Should you require any such advice, please contact us directly. The information contained herein does not create, and your review or use of the information does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship.
