Starbucks Ceo Howard Schultz How To Be Strategic Thinkers

How Howard Schultz's Strategic Thinking Revived Starbucks

Schultz's Return to Starbucks: A Case Study in Strategic Leadership

Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, recently sat down with Inc. magazine to discuss the importance of strategic thinking for leaders. Schultz's own experience with Starbucks is a prime example of how strategic thinking can lead to great success.

The Rebirth of Starbucks

When Schultz returned to Starbucks in 2008, the company was on the brink of collapse. However, Schultz had a clear vision for the company's future. He outlined a strategic plan that focused on three core principles:

1. Enhance the customer experience: Schultz wanted to make Starbucks a place where customers felt comfortable and welcome.
2. Improve the quality of coffee and food: He believed that Starbucks could compete with higher-end coffee shops by offering superior products.
3. Expand the company's global footprint: Schultz saw Starbucks as a global brand, and he wanted to expand the company's presence around the world.

Schultz's strategic plan was a success. Within a few years, Starbucks had regained its footing and was once again a thriving company.

The Importance of Strategic Thinking

Schultz's experience is a reminder of the importance of strategic thinking for leaders. By taking the time to develop a clear vision for the future and create a plan to achieve that vision, leaders can set their organizations up for success.

Here are some of the benefits of strategic thinking:

• It helps leaders to make better decisions.
• It gives organizations a clear direction.
• It helps organizations to avoid costly mistakes.
• It increases the likelihood of organizational success.

If you are a leader, it is important to develop your strategic thinking skills. By doing so, you can help your organization to achieve its full potential.