Strategy Or Tactics First? Yes.

Ideally, according to most folks, you’re supposed to build a strategy first – then jump into the tactics. That’s the tidy, textbook version of how great work gets made.

But sometimes, or maybe even usually, your wildly creative mind fires off brilliant tactics long before the strategy has been fully formed. A spark hits. A concept lands. A clever execution pops into your head out of nowhere.

And you know what? Good for you.

Every great idea is in search of a home. And whether the tactic comes before the strategy or the strategy shapes the tactic, both paths can lead to powerful results. Creativity isn’t a straight line – it’s loops, scribbles, and detours in unexpected breakthroughs.

So instead of forcing the process, embrace the mess. Let ideas show up when they want to. Let strategies evolve as you go. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how you got there – it’s about what you created.

And if the work delivers? That’s what really matters.

Ready to turn your next “tactic-first” idea into real results? Let’s talk. Email me at janthoine@arketi.com.

Written by Jason Anthoine, SVP, Managing Director of Arketi Inside
Jason Anthoine is Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Arketi Inside, Arketi Group’s internal communications offering dedicated to workforce communications and change management. Anthoine helps organizations engage and inspire employees to build thriving cultures. He has worked with hundreds of companies to transform workforce communications, strengthen the employee-employer relationship, and create more resilient organizations.