Business Micro Action: Quick fire SWOT exercise

Rapid SWOT Analysis for Growth

Let's quickly do a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis, specifically for your immediate growth goals. This fast check-up will help you quickly spot where to seize opportunities and head off potential problems in your strategy, ultimately helping you grow more effectively and avoid setbacks.

Section 1: Strengths (What's Working Well Internally?)

These are the internal advantages your business has that can help you achieve your growth goals. Think about what you do exceptionally well.

  1. What internal resources, capabilities, or assets give you a competitive edge for your current growth goals? (e.g., strong team, unique technology, brand reputation, efficient processes)

  2. What unique value propositions or differentiators do you possess that directly support your growth?

  3. What positive internal factors are currently contributing to your momentum or success?

Section 2: Weaknesses (What Needs Attention Internally?)

These are the internal limitations or areas where your business could improve that might hinder your growth goals. Be honest and realistic.

  1. What internal limitations or deficiencies might prevent you from reaching your immediate growth targets? (e.g., lack of specific skills, outdated technology, limited budget, inefficient processes)

  2. Are there any areas where your competitors outperform you that could impact your growth?

  3. What internal factors are currently slowing down your progress or causing challenges?

Section 3: Opportunities (What External Factors Can You Leverage?)

These are favourable external conditions or trends that your business can exploit to achieve its growth goals. Look outside your organisation.

  1. What emerging market trends, technological advancements, or shifts in customer behaviour could you leverage for growth?

  2. Are there new markets, customer segments, or partnerships you could explore that align with your growth ambitions?

  3. What external factors could give you a significant advantage if you act on them now?

Section 4: Threats (What External Factors Could Cause Problems?)

These are unfavourable external conditions or trends that could pose risks to your business and hinder your growth goals. Consider potential challenges.

  1. What external factors, such as new competitors, economic downturns, regulatory changes, or shifts in consumer preferences, could negatively impact your growth?

  2. Are there any market changes or industry disruptions that could pose a risk to your current growth strategy?

  3. What potential external obstacles might make it harder to achieve your immediate growth goals?

By quickly completing this SWOT analysis, you'll gain valuable insights into your immediate growth landscape. This will help you make more informed decisions, capitalise on your strengths, address weaknesses, seize opportunities, and proactively mitigate threats, ultimately helping you grow more effectively and avoid setbacks.

Next
Next

Business Micro Action Exercise: In the head of your customer