Why Your Business Strategy Should Refresh Every Three Years: Lessons From 30 Years in Leadership

One lesson stands out: A business strategy can’t sit still.

This year, MPI Recruitment celebrated its 30th anniversary. 

It’s a milestone that’s given me pause to reflect on the changes we’ve navigated, the lessons we’ve learnt, and the decisions that helped us grow.   

A milestone that invites reflection 

One key takeaway, and the focus of today’s blog, is the importance of regularly refreshing your business strategy. 

In a fast-moving world, relying on a strategy written years ago is a recipe for stagnation. Markets shift, technology evolves, and client expectations change.  After 30 years running MPI, a three-year review cycle has proven to be the sweet spot for ensuring continued relevance and growth. 

Why Three Years? 

Three years offers balance. Review too often, and you lose focus. Leave it too long, and you fall behind. 

A three-year rhythm gives initiatives time to work while ensuring you stay alert to new conditions.  It’s not about constant tinkering, but rather about thoughtful, periodic reassessment. 

What this looks like at MPI   

Every three years, we step back and ask a few grounding questions: 

 

• What has changed in the market? We analyse industry trends, competitor activity, and technological advancements to understand what’s reshaping recruitment.  

• What are our strengths and weaknesses? A candid assessment of our internal capabilities is vital. 

• What are the emerging opportunities and threats? We look at potential growth areas and anticipate future challenges. 

• Are our current goals still aligned with our vision? Our overarching vision guides our strategy, and we ensure they remain in sync. 

 

This isn’t about scrapping what works. It’s about adjusting course where needed.   

When digital recruitment platforms grew, we didn’t replace our foundations. We expanded them. We improved our technology, strengthened our online presence, and trained our team to use new tools effectively. 

Practical Steps for Your Three-Year Review 

Here are some practical steps you can take to implement a three-year strategic review cycle: 

1. Schedule it: Mark your calendar and make it a non-negotiable event. 
2. Gather data: Collect market research, financial data, and feedback from employees and clients. 
3. Involve your team: Strategic planning should be a collaborative effort. 
4. Prioritise and focus: Don’t try to do everything at once. Identify the most critical areas for improvement. 
5. Develop an action plan: Outline specific steps, timelines, and responsibilities. 
6. Monitor progress: Track your progress regularly and make adjustments as needed. 

 

Looking Ahead 

As we celebrate 30 years of success, we’re excited about the future of MPI Recruitment. We’ll continue to refresh our strategy every three years, staying agile and responsive to the ever-changing world of recruitment. 

If you lead a business, I encourage you to adopt your own three-year approach.  It helps you stay relevant, maintain momentum, and position your organisation for the successful years to come.   

Here’s to your success.  

 

Steve Heather 

Managing Director, MPI Recruitment 

www.mpirecruitment.au 

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