CEO Coaching: your key to exponential growth

Posted on December 12, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

CEO Coaching: your key to exponential growth

As the CEO of a company, you feel constant pressure. You are the anchor of your organisation, responsible for strategic decisions, maintaining a strong corporate culture, and achieving growth in an ever-changing market. These are no small challenges, and the toll can be enormous.

Fortunately, there is a solution that not only helps you ease the burdens, but also guides you towards exponential growth: CEO coaching. In this article, we discuss the challenges ("pains") many CEOs struggle with and how customised business coaching can turn them into tangible benefits ("gains").

The pains of a CEO

1. Strategic overload

The pressure to formulate a clear vision while solving operational problems is enormous. Without a robust strategy, your company can become rudderless.

2. Unpredictable growth

Many CEOs struggle with making growth predictable. Generating leads, closing deals effectively and ensuring customer satisfaction are complex challenges.

3. Human dynamics

Your team is your most important asset, but also a source of constant challenges. From leadership development to talent retention, managing people requires constant attention.

4. Poor implementation

A strong strategy is worthless without effective implementation. Many CEOs experience obstacles in implementing plans, following processes and monitoring progress.

5. Mission and meaning

Balancing profit with social impact and inspiring your team can be difficult. How can you clearly communicate your mission and connect it to your company's core values?

The gains of CEO Coaching

Executive coaching offers a proven framework that transforms these challenges and issues into strength and growth. Using the 5 Disciplines of Exponential Growth, coaching helps you stay on track and achieve results.

1. Crystal clear strategy

An executive coach helps you refine a vision and identify growth opportunities. This includes:

Long-term sustainability
Opportunities for scalability and market reach

2. Predictable growth

With a structured approach to business development, you can

Generating leads consistently
Improving customer experience
Creating predictable revenue streams

3. Strong teams

You will develop leadership at all levels and ensure:

Effective talent recruitment and retention
An engaged and productive team

4. Consistent implementation

By focusing on processes and management, you realise:

Efficient implementation of plans
Transparency in goals and results

5. Meaningful mission

With coaching, you rediscover your organisation's core values and bring:

Improved connection with your team
A positive impact on the community in which you operate

Specifically, what does the programme offer?

The ActionCOACH CEO Coaching Programme is specifically designed to guide CEOs towards exponential growth. The programme combines monthly sessions, quarterly workshops and annual planning days. In it, you work on:

Strategy development: clarity in vision and scalability.
Business Development:Tools to increase market reach and customer loyalty.
Team development: investing in leadership and cohesion.
Execution power: Efficiency and control in processes.
Mission redefinition: Creating a culture with impact.

Why invest in a CEO coach?

The programme is not only an investment in your business, but also
in yourself as a leader. CEOs who choose coaching find that they do not
only grow faster, but also be more effective in navigating
complex challenges. Coaching helps you to:

Bring peace and focus back into your busy schedule.
Prioritise innovation and strategy over daily fires.
Leverage external expertise to identify and eliminate blind spots.

Are you ready to achieve exponential growth and achieve business success? Take contact up and discover how CEO coaching can transform your business. Together, we will add zeros to your success!

Kurt Vervloet

Kurt Vervloet is a business coach, blogger and speaker. Since 2017, he has been coaching businesses around the world, ranging from solo entrepreneurs, SME companies to executive management teams at large organisations. His clients choose to work with him because of my proven, no-nonsense approach to optimising and scaling businesses. By achieving great results with his clients, he has already been rewarded with several Awards.

Connecting communication - How to apply it?

Posted on November 15, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

Connecting communication - How to apply it?

You have probably experienced that communication with a colleague, friend or family member does not go as smoothly as you would like. Perhaps misunderstandings arise, feelings are misunderstood, or it seems like you are not really listening to each other. Situations like these can present extra challenges for entrepreneurs and executives, especially when business interests are at stake. Connecting communication can make a world of difference here. It is a way of communicating that not only helps to get your message across clearly, but also to really connect and avoid misunderstandings.

What is connecting communication?

Connecting communication, sometimes called non-violent communication, is a method developed by Marshall Rosenberg. It is about communicating with empathy and respect, both for your own needs and those of the other person. Instead of reacting from frustration or impatience, connecting communication helps you listen and speak with an open mind. This creates space to look for solutions together and to understand the underlying reasons for behaviour. For entrepreneurs and managers, this method can help create a positive corporate culture and effectively address conflicts within teams.

What are the benefits of connecting communication?

Connective communication has many benefits, both personally and professionally. First, it helps resolve conflicts faster and in a constructive way. Within a business environment, where people want to communicate results quickly, this technique can create calm and clarity, allowing decisions to be made in a well-considered way. Instead of focusing on who is right, you focus on what moves the other person, which ensures mutual understanding and respect. Moreover, connecting communication helps build strong and authentic relationships. As you gain more insight into your own feelings and needs, you can share them in a respectful way. This creates an atmosphere of trust, in which the other person also feels free to be open and honest. Connective communication allows you to communicate more effectively, leading to better cooperation and fewer misunderstandings. This skill is not only useful in difficult conversations but also contributes to your personal growth and well-being. For a manager, it means that team members feel safe to give honest feedback, which promotes productivity and well-being in the workplace.

Applying connecting communication in 5 steps

Want to communicate connectively? Then follow these five steps:

1. Crystal clear strategy

Start by naming what you have observed, without interpretations. Describe objectively what you see or hear, without judgements. This lays a neutral foundation for the conversation. For example, "I notice you have been overworking a lot lately."

2. Feel what this does to you

Then describe how this perception affects your emotions. By sincerely sharing your feelings, you give the other person insight into your experience. This helps make the message personal, which can lead to greater understanding. For example, "When I see that you work so much, I worry that you are exhausted."

3. Naming needs

The next step is to name your underlying needs. Why do you feel the way you do? By sharing these needs, you give the other person more insight into what is important to you. This way, you avoid misunderstandings and can better keep the conversation open. For example, "I need a healthy work-life balance, and I would like you to have one too."

4. Make a request

Now that you have explained what you need, it is time to make a concrete and achievable request. This is not a demand, but a question that gives the other person space to say yes or no. By making a request, you give the other person a chance to think about a solution. For example, "Would you consider discussing your working hours with the team to see how we can improve the balance?"

5. Listen empathically to the other person

Finally, it is important to be open to what the other person has to say. Listen with empathy and try to empathise with their perspective. This creates a mutual connection and understanding and offers the opportunity to reach a solution together. Ask, for example, "How do you experience this situation?" This shows that you also understand the other person and want to work together to find a solution.

Why connecting communication is crucial for executives

Connecting communication can be a valuable tool for business owners and managers. It makes teams work better together, increases employee satisfaction and loyalty, and contributes to a positive work culture. In a world where quick and efficient decisions are often necessary, this approach can actually provide the necessary nuance and depth. Moreover, connecting communication contributes to lasting relationships with customers and business partners by focusing not only on the transactional, but also on the human aspect of cooperation.

Need help or want to know more about connecting communication?

I am happy to help you master connecting communication, whether you want to know more for personal development or for work. This approach allows you to better understand situations and find solutions that benefit everyone. Want to know more about how connecting communication can strengthen your leadership style? Feel free to get in touch via +32 474 072 444 for a free introductory talk or more information on executive coaching.

Frequently asked questions about connecting communicating

1. What is the difference between connecting communication and non-violent communication?

Non-violent communication is a form of connecting communication that focuses on avoiding judgement and using empathy to understand the other person.

2. Can I also apply connecting communication in my personal relationships?

Yes, connecting communication is suitable for both professional and personal relationships and helps to connect deeper and increase mutual understanding.

3. How long does it take to learn connecting communication?

Applying connecting communication is a process that requires practice. You can start right away, and the more often you use it, the easier it becomes.

4. Are training courses available for connecting communication?

Yes, various training courses and workshops are available. An experienced business coach can help you develop the skills.

Kurt Vervloet

What is sales coaching and how can it help you?

Posted on August 29, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

What is sales coaching and how can it help you?

Sales coaching is a valuable tool for entrepreneurs and salespeople who want to improve their sales performance. Do you notice that your sales are not producing the desired results or do you want to take your performance to the next level? In these cases, sales coaching can make all the difference.

What is sales coaching?

Sales coaching is a process whereby you, as a salesperson or entrepreneur, are guided by an experienced coach to refine and improve your sales techniques. Instead of just focusing on numbers, the emphasis is on developing your personal sales style and approach. Whether you are struggling to close deals or just looking for more structure in your sales process, a sales coach will help you address these challenges in a focused way.

What aspects can be covered in sales coaching?

During sales coaching, different aspects are covered depending on your specific needs. These include:

Conversation techniques:

How do you make customers feel understood and heard?

Sales strategies:

What steps should you follow to successfully close a deal?

Relationship management:

How do you build long-term relationships with customers, making them more likely to buy from you?

Negotiations:

How do you handle objections and ensure that both parties are satisfied?

Personal development:

You will learn to sell authentically, which is crucial for long-term success.

What are the benefits of a sales coach?

A sales coach offers more than just advice; he or she is your sounding board and helps you grow. Here are some of the benefits:

Individual counselling:

You will receive personalised coaching tailored to your specific situation and challenges.

Results-oriented:

By coaching on both behaviour and results, you improve your sales performance step by step.

Motivation and confidence:

Regular feedback and support will keep you motivated and more confident in your own abilities.

Interested in customised coaching?

Besides business coaching & executive coaching, I also focus on sales coaching. Whether you are struggling with your sales or just need that extra push, I am happy to help you with a coaching programme that is fully tailored to your needs. With my experience as a sounding board and mentor, I guide you step by step to better sales results and more structure in your approach. Book a free consultation with me today.

Kurt Vervloet

The benefits of management coaching

Posted on August 7, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

The benefits of management coaching

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by day-to-day business problems? As a manager or executive, it can feel like you are constantly putting out fires. You are swamped by tasks and responsibilities, making it feel like it is impossible to focus on your own and strategic goals. This can cause stress and reduce your sense of control and direction. Management coaching offers a solution by helping you prioritise and structure your daily work.

Do you want to improve your leadership skills? Everyone would like to become a better leader. Motivating a team, managing conflict and making strategic decisions are crucial skills for a successful manager.

What is management coaching and how can it help you?

Management coaching is a professional relationship between you and a coach, aimed at improving your leadership skills and achieving your business goals. With more than 25 years of experience coaching entrepreneurs and executives, I, Kurt Vervloet, offer the expertise and guidance you need to grow and succeed. For more information, you can reach me at +32 474 072 444.

The benefits of management coaching

Improved leadership skills

Management coaching helps you take your leadership skills to the next level. This means you are better able to motivate your team, manage conflict and make strategic decisions. I can teach you how to communicate effectively, handle difficult conversations, give and receive feedback, and inspire your team.

Better communication

Good communication is crucial for any organisation. I can help you communicate more effectively with your team, leading to better collaboration and higher productivity. This includes not only getting your message across, but also actively listening to your team members and creating an open communication culture.

Increased self-knowledge

Coaching helps you better understand your strengths and weaknesses. This self-knowledge enables you to leverage your strengths and work on your weaknesses, making you a more effective leader. Self-knowledge is essential for personal and professional growth and helps you make better decisions.

More focus and purpose

I help you clearly define your goals and create a plan to achieve them. This will ensure you are focused and purposeful, which will improve the efficiency of your team and business. By prioritising and setting strategic goals, you can use your energy and resources effectively.

Stress reduction

By learning better time management skills and more effective strategies, coaching can help reduce stress. This leads to a healthier work-life balance and higher job satisfaction. I can help you identify stress factors and develop effective solutions.

Greater organisational effectiveness

Management coaching helps you improve processes and systems in your organisation. I can guide you in identifying inefficiencies and implementing best practices, making your organisation more effective and profitable.

Personal and professional growth

I not only offer professional support, but also help you with your personal development. This leads to a more balanced and fulfilling career. By working on both your personal and professional development, you can become a more effective and inspiring leader.

Frequently asked questions about management coaching

What is the difference between management coaching and executive coaching?

Management coaching focuses on improving the skills and performance of managers and executives at different levels within an organisation. Executive coaching is specifically aimed at top managers and C-level executives, with a focus on strategic decision-making and personal leadership development.

How long does a management coaching programme take?

The duration of a coaching programme can vary depending on your goals and needs. Generally, trajectories last between six to eight months, with regular sessions taking place bi-weekly or monthly.

What can you expect during a coaching session?

During a coaching session, you discuss your goals and challenges with me. I help you identify obstacles and develop strategies to overcome them. Each session is tailored to meet your specific needs and may include different techniques and exercises, such as reflecting, brainstorming, role-playing and feedback sessions.

How to choose the right management coach?

It is important to choose a coach who has experience in your sector and with your specific challenges. An introductory meeting can help determine whether there is a good click between you and me. I offer you this opportunity free of charge and without obligation so you can discover how I can help you achieve your goals.

Kurt Vervloet

What is coaching leadership and how do you teach it?

Posted on July 23, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

What is coaching leadership and how do you teach it?

Coaching leadership can be an interesting approach for your organisation. This style not only helps employees reach their potential, but also creates a positive and productive work environment. Find out exactly what coaching leadership is and how you can learn to apply it.

What is coaching leadership?

Coaching leadership is a style in which the leader assumes the role of coach. Instead of just directing and controlling, a coaching leader helps employees develop themselves and improve their skills. This is done by listening, asking questions and giving constructive feedback. The aim is to give employees more ownership over their work and motivate them to be their best selves.

How can you lead in a coaching capacity? Roadmap

1. Create a safe environment

A safe working environment is essential for coaching leadership. Employees should feel free to ask questions, make mistakes and learn. Make sure you encourage open communication and actively listen to the whole team.

2. Set clear goals

It is important to set clear and achievable goals with your team. Use the SMART principle (Specific, Measurable, Acceptable, Realistic, Time-bound) to make sure everyone knows what is expected of them.

3. Give constructive feedback

Feedback is a powerful tool in coaching leadership. Give feedback regularly and make sure it is constructive. Focus on concrete areas for improvement and avoid personal attacks. Also ask for feedback in order to grow yourself.

4. Encourage self-reflection

Encourage all employees to reflect on their performance and where they can improve. This can be done by asking targeted questions such as "What went well?" and "What can be improved?"

5. Offer support and resources

As a coaching leader, your job is to support the whole team and provide the necessary resources to achieve their goals. This could be training, guidance or providing tools and information.

6. Encourage growth and development

Make sure employees are given opportunities to grow and develop within their roles. Also make them aware of this so that they realise the opportunities available to them within your organisation.

Why is coaching leadership important?

Coaching leadership offers many benefits, both for employees, for you and for the entire organisation. It promotes a culture of continuous learning and improvement, increases employee motivation and commitment, and leads to better performance and results. Moreover, it contributes to a positive working atmosphere and higher satisfaction.

Advice from an experienced mentor

Learning coaching leadership can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. As an experienced manager, I know better than anyone the pitfalls, how to lead effectively with coaching, manage small and large teams, integrate coaching into your leadership style, grow in delegation and deal effectively with employees. I can provide you with the tools and methods you can build on for life. Book a no-obligation consultation today with me and take the first step towards a growing and efficient organisation.

Kurt Vervloet

Calculating EBITDA - how do you do it?

Posted on June 4, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

Calculating EBITDA - how do you do it?

What is EBITDA?

Besides EBIT, the term EBITDA is often used when analysing business results. This stands for "Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation". It adds depreciation and amortisation to the EBIT calculation, giving a broader picture of operating profitability.

How can you calculate EBITDA?

Formula:

EBITDA = EBIT + Depreciation + Amortisation

Formula according to the Commission on Accounting Standards (CBN):

Add depreciation and amortisation:

This includes both tangible and intangible fixed assets, as well as any extraordinary depreciation.
- - Depreciation and amortisation of formation expenses, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment (item 630)
- - Write-downs on inventories (item 631/4)
- - Exceptional depreciation and amortisation (item 660)
Correct for reversal of depreciation and amortisation: These are previously taken write-offs that are reversed.
- - Write-back of depreciation and impairment losses (item 760)
Sample calculation:
- Company turnover: €500,000
- Operating expenses: €300,000
- Depreciation and amortisation: €50,000
Then this is to say:

EBITDA = €200,000 (EBIT) + €50,000 (depreciation and amortisation) = €250,000

The company thus has an EBITDA of €250,000.

Important to know too: For smaller companies using a simplified accounting scheme, it can be challenging to EBIT to be calculated precisely due to lack of detailed posts.

What is a healthy EBITDA?

A healthy EBITDA margin varies widely by industry, but in general, a margin of 15% or higher is often seen as very positive.

The key in assessing a 'healthy' EBITDA is to observe the capital structure and fixed asset investments that characterise your business. For companies that rely heavily on physical assets, a higher EBITDA may be necessary to offset greater depreciation and amortisation.

Again, it is important to analyse EBITDA regularly. A rising trend in EBITDA may indicate an improvement in your business operations and the overall financial health of your company.

Why is EBITDA important?

Besides analysing the financial health of your company, EBITDA is also often used as a benchmark in business acquisitions. As an experienced business coach I help companies improve their EBITDA and optimise business processes. Feel free to contact me for an initial discussion to discover how I can support you in increasing your profitability and successfully executing acquisitions.

Kurt Vervloet

Calculating EBIT - essential for your bottom line

Posted on April 23, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

Calculating EBIT - essential for your bottom line

Understanding how to calculate EBIT is essential for every entrepreneur and investor as they can provide valuable insights on the financial health and profitability of your business.

What is EBIT?

EBIT or "Earnings Before Interest and Taxes", is a measure that reflects your company's operating profit before interest and taxes are deducted. It provides insight into operational performance by looking only at revenues and operating expenses related to a company's core business.

Calculating EBIT - how do you do it?

Calculating EBIT provides insights into a company's operating profit by considering only revenues and operating expenses, excluding interest and taxes.

Formula:

EBIT = Revenue (net) - Operating expenses

Formula according to the guidelines of the Accounting Standards Commission (CBN) in Belgium:

Start with the pre-tax profit (or loss). This is your starting point.

Deduct income not directly related to core activities: this includes income from financial fixed and current assets.

-Income from financial fixed assets (code 750)
-Proceeds from current assets (code 751)
-Other financial income (code 752/9)

Then add all costs related to debt: including debt and impairment charges that are not operational.

+ Cost of debt (code 650)
+ Write-downs on current assets (code 651)
+ Other financial charges (code 652/9)

Example:

Let's say your company generates sales of €500,000 and has operating expenses (including cost of goods sold, but excluding interest and taxes) of €300,000.

EBIT = €500,000 - €300,000 = €200,000

That is, the company has an operating profit of €200,000 before interest and taxes are deducted.

What does EBIT say about a company's financial health?

Strong EBIT indicates good operational efficiency and profitability, excluding the impact of interest and taxes. It is an indication that a company is performing well in its core business.

How much EBIT is healthy?

Determining a 'healthy' EBIT depends very much on the sector in which your company operates and the stage your business is in. In general, a positive EBIT is seen as a sign of operational strength, as it shows that your company is able to generate profits before the impact of interest and taxes.

A healthy EBIT margin varies, but as a rule of thumb, a margin of 10% or higher is often considered strong, while a margin between 5% and 10% may be considered adequate. However, in some industries, even a lower margin is acceptable, given the nature of operating expenses and fixed asset investments.

It is important to stress that evaluating your EBIT should also be done in the context of your operating results over several years to identify trends. Consistent growth in your EBIT suggests an improvement in your company's operational efficiency and profitability.

Kurt Vervloet

SMART goals examples

Posted on March 19, 2024November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

SMART goals examples

The importance of setting SMART goals, a crucial component for achieving business success, cannot be overemphasised. These goals provide clarity and focus, essential in a business environment where time and resources are limited. By setting goals SMART - a methodology that stands for Specific, Measurable, Acceptable, Realistic and Time-bound - teams can focus their efforts more effectively and significantly improve business results. This approach, known as the SMART method, transforms vague ambitions into concrete plans with clear steps and deadlines, significantly increasing the chances of success.

How to effectively set SMART objectives?

Formulating SMART objectives effectively starts with clearly defining exactly what you want to achieve, your goal. This goal must be specific, with clear criteria for how success can be made measurable, achievable and acceptable within the organisation, realistic given current resources and circumstances, and must be achieved within a specific timeframe. This approach ensures that the goals are both ambitious and achievable, with strong support and clearly defined, measurable targets.

Common pitfalls when setting goals

When setting goals, entrepreneurs often experience pitfalls such as not making their goals specific enough, setting immeasurable targets or setting goals without a clear deadline. These mistakes can lead to confusion, lack of direction and demotivation within teams.

5 examples of smart goals and how to integrate this into your business strategy and culture.

Let us now go deeper into the application of SMART objectives in a business context by using specific examples. This helps to understand the nuances of how well versus poorly formulated objectives can lead to better business results.

Example 1: Coca-Cola's water efficiency

Well formulated SMART target: Improve water efficiency by 20% by 2022 compared to the base year.

Specifically: Coca-Cola targets a 20% improvement in water efficiency.
Measurable: By using water consumption reports and efficiency analyses.
Acceptable: Challenging but achievable, with support from both management and the operations team.
Realistic: Given technological advances.
Time-bound: A clear deadline in 2022.

Poorly formulated goal: "Make our water use better."

This goal lacks specificity, measurability, acceptance within the organisation, a realistic quantitative target and a time-bound component.

Example 2: Technology company accelerates development cycle

Well formulated SMART goal: Accelerate the product development cycle with 20% within one year.

3. Human dynamics

Your team is your most important asset, but also a source of constant challenges. From leadership development to talent retention, managing people requires constant attention.

Specific and Measurable: By comparing the time from concept to market launch.
Acceptable: Support within the organisation.
Realistic: Feasible with current resources and technology.
Time-bound: Within a year.

Poorly formulated goal: "Make our development processes faster."

This goal lacks specificity, measurability, acceptability, realism without benchmarks and a clear time frame.

Example 3: McDonald's sustainability initiatives

Well-formulated SMART target: Achieve a 36% reduction in absolute emissions by 2030.

Specific and Measurable: Focus on significant carbon footprint reduction.
Acceptable: Management and employee support.
Realistic: Investment in sustainable technologies.
Time-bound: Deadline of 2030.

Poorly formulated goal: "Reduce our impact on the environment."

This goal is too vague, not specific, not measurable without quantitative targets, unclear whether it is acceptable within the company, lacks realism without specific actions and lacks a time-bound component.

Example 4: Sustainability objectives

A manufacturing-oriented multinational integrated SMART goals into their business strategy by setting specific, measurable, acceptable, realistic and time-bound targets for reducing their carbon footprint. They set the ambitious goal of reducing total greenhouse gas emissions by 30% within five years. They would achieve this by investing in renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency in their factories. This SMART goal not only became a strategic focal point but also transformed into a central part of their brand identity and corporate culture, creating a culture shift that involved employees at all levels in sustainability initiatives. This example of smart-goal setting illustrates how strategic goals can help achieve key business objectives and strengthen corporate culture around shared values.

Example 5: Culture change through training and development

A service company deployed SMART objectives to promote a culture of continuous improvement and personal development. With the specific goal of having 100% of their employees participate in at least two professional development workshops or trainings within two years, this objective was measurable, acceptable, realistic and time-bound. The target was designed not only to improve employees' skills, but also to increase employee satisfaction and make the company more competitive. By creating a supportive environment and offering various learning paths, the company not only achieved its set goals but also encouraged collaboration and innovation within the team. This highlights the importance of making goals specific and how setting SMART goals can help achieve cultural change and achieve strategic business objectives.

Integration within your company?

By carefully setting goals SMART and considering frequently asked questions about SMART goals, entrepreneurs and teams can increase their chances of success. Want to learn more about this strategic approach within your business? Contact me and we can proceed to this.

Kurt Vervloet

Top 5 best marketing books

Posted on December 15, 2023November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

Top 5 best marketing books

As a business owner, keeping up with the latest marketing strategies and insights is crucial for your business to grow and prosper. But with the plethora of marketing books out there, it can be challenging to decide which ones are worth reading. I often get asked which marketing book I can recommend. Below you can find my personal top five.

"They Ask You Answer" by Marcus Sheridon

In "The Ask You Answer", Marcus Sheridon teaches you how to gain your customers' trust by answering their questions and becoming an authority in your industry. The book emphasises the importance of transparency and sharing valuable information to attract your audience. This is essential for entrepreneurs striving to build a strong online presence and strengthen their brand image.

"$100M Leads: How to Get Strangers To Want To Buy Your Stuff" by Alex Hormozi

Alex Hormozi's "$100M Leads" is a must-read for entrepreneurs looking for effective ways to convince strangers to buy their products or services. The book offers insights and strategies for generating leads and converting potential customers into paying customers, allowing your business to grow exponentially.

"Blue ocean strategy: creative strategy for new, competition-free markets" by W. Chan Kim

"Blue Ocean Strategy" by W. Chan Kim introduces the concept of creating new, untapped markets instead of competing in saturated markets. This approach can be extremely valuable for entrepreneurs looking for innovative ways to grow their business by discovering and seizing new opportunities.

"Selling the Invisible: A Field Guide to Modern Marketing" by Harry Beckwith

In "Selling the Invisible", Harry Beckwith shares valuable insights into modern marketing techniques, especially for service businesses. The book emphasises the importance of understanding and communicating the value your services provide. This is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs who want to better understand how to effectively market intangible services.

"Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable" by Seth Godin

Seth Godin's "Purple Cow" emphasises the importance of standing out in the market by being remarkable. This book encourages entrepreneurs to add unique and eye-catching elements to their products or services to stand out from the competition. For anyone looking to grow their business, "Purple Cow" offers valuable insights on creating an unforgettable brand.

These top five marketing books offer a wealth of knowledge and strategies for entrepreneurs striving for growth and success in their businesses.

Kurt Vervloet

What is strategic thinking?

Posted on October 20, 2023November 7, 2025 by stagiaire

What is strategic thinking?

Strategic thinking is an important skill that is increasingly valued in the business world. It involves the ability to think in a strategic and forward-looking way, taking into account the future and the goals you want to achieve. Strategic thinking is not only suitable for leadership, but can also be useful for individuals at different levels within an organisation.

What does strategic thinking entail?

Definition of strategic thinking

Strategic thinking can be described as the ability to think strategically and purposefully. It involves being able to look beyond the present moment and think about the future. It includes setting goals, observing trends and developments, analysing internal and external factors and making strategic choices.

Importance of strategic thinking

The importance of strategic thinking cannot be overemphasised. It enables organisations and individuals to be better prepared for the future and adapt to changes in the market. Strategic thinking helps plan and make long-term decisions, increasing the chances of success. When you take time for this, you are better able to deal with challenges.

What are the benefits?

Strategic thinking enables you to identify and seize opportunities, analyse risks, make higher-level decisions and develop effective strategies to achieve your goals. It also helps you to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances. In addition, strategic thinking also stimulates creativity, as you are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to achieve your goals.

Characteristics of strategic thinking

Flexibility

Flexibility is a key attribute of strategic thinking. It allows you to adapt to changing circumstances and seize new opportunities. Flexibility means being open to new ideas and willing to adjust your strategy when necessary.

Creativity

Creativity is also an important attribute of strategic thinking. It allows you to think out-of-the-box and come up with new and innovative solutions. Creativity helps you develop unique strategies that set you apart from the competition.

Long-term vision

Having a long-term vision is crucial in strategic thinking. It means looking beyond the present and thinking about the future goals you want to achieve. A long-term vision allows you to develop a strategy aimed at sustainable success and growth.

How can you develop strategic thinking skills?

Observing trends and developments

One way to develop strategic thinking is to observe trends and developments in the market. It is important to keep abreast of changes and new opportunities that arise. By observing trends and developments, you can anticipate changes and respond proactively.

Asking the right questions

Asking the right questions is a key skill in strategic thinking. By thinking critically and asking the right questions, you can understand the underlying factors and drivers behind certain situations and trends. This helps you gain in-depth insights and make better strategic decisions.

Identifying internal and external factors

Identifying internal and external factors affecting your organisation is also important in strategic thinking. By conducting a thorough analysis, you can identify potential opportunities and threats and adjust your strategy accordingly. Understanding both the internal and external environment is essential for effective strategic thinking.

Action plan needed?

Strategic thinking is not something you do alone. In business, it is often essential to prioritise and look at all factors from multiple perspectives. Contact me so we can brainstorm together.