What Are Tactics in Business?

What Are Tactics in Business?

Tactics in business refer to the specific, short-term actions or steps taken to implement strategies and achieve business goals. While strategy defines the overall plan or direction, tactics focus on how to execute the strategy on a practical level.

Tactics in business are usually actionable, concrete and measurable. Examples include:

  • Launching a targeted marketing campaign;
  • Negotiating supplier contracts;
  • Implementing a customer loyalty program; and
  • Hiring specific skill sets to support a new product line.

Tactics are essential because a well-crafted strategy without actionable tactics is unlikely to succeed:

  • Effective tactics are flexible and can be adjusted as situations evolve; and
  • Tactics provide the "boots on the ground" needed to deliver results and progress toward strategic objectives.