The Long Game of Strategic Thinking: My Conversation with Dorie Clark on HRchat
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with the brilliant Dorie Clark in HRchat episode 752. Dorie is a renowned keynote speaker, best-selling author, and expert in leadership and strategy. If you’ve been on LinkedIn or read Harvard Business Review, you’ve likely come across her thought-provoking insights. During our conversation, we dove into some powerful ideas that HR professionals, and anyone, can apply to build a successful career and personal brand.
HR Professionals: Investing in Others and Themselves
One of the key topics we explored was how HR professionals often invest so much in others that they forget to invest in their careers. Dorie pointed out that this isn’t uncommon, as HR tends to attract individuals who are passionate about helping people. However, it’s crucial not to neglect personal career growth. Dorie shared insights from her colleague Marshall Goldsmith, noting that we often put our jobs ahead of our careers—focusing on doing a great job today but not necessarily thinking about how to position ourselves for the future.
HR’s Strategic Role
We also discussed the massive shift HR has undergone, especially during the pandemic. HR went from being seen as a cost center to a central player in managing strategic workforce initiatives. With hybrid work models, AI, and ongoing talent challenges, HR is now at the heart of driving organizational success.
Dorie emphasized that HR professionals must claim their place at the strategy table by focusing on long-term thinking. Her latest book, The Long Game, stresses that strategic thinking is one of the most critical skills for leadership. HR leaders should be seizing this moment to redefine their roles as true strategic partners in their organizations.
Building Thought Leadership
Dorie and I also touched on the importance of building thought leadership, especially for HR professionals. It’s about more than just doing your job well—it’s about sharing your insights and creating a platform for your ideas. Whether through writing, speaking, or engaging with industry publications, sharing your expertise helps elevate your personal brand and ensures that you’re not taken for granted internally.
As Dorie explained, one of the best ways to build your reputation is by creating content that allows your ideas to travel beyond your immediate circle. Whether you’re writing for industry journals, speaking at conferences, or even sharing your thoughts on LinkedIn, it’s all about positioning yourself as a thought leader in your field.
Networking the Right Way
We closed our conversation by addressing one of the trickiest aspects of career growth: networking. Dorie offered practical advice on how to build meaningful relationships without coming off as transactional or insincere. Her principle of “no asks for a year” resonated deeply with me. It’s about taking the time to genuinely connect with people and not rushing to ask for favors. Build relationships first, and the rest will follow.
A Final Thought
If you’re looking to up your game in strategic thinking, career growth, or building a personal brand, Dorie’s insights are invaluable. I highly recommend her book The Long Game for anyone interested in thinking beyond short-term wins and focusing on long-term success.
You can also download her free Strategic Thinking Self-Assessment at dorieclark.com/thelonggame. Trust me, it’s worth your time.