The Quick Wins – What Do They Mean in Business Strategy?

Yesterday, I had the privilege of meeting someone I have long admired in the entrepreneurial space. As expected, our conversation quickly took off, touching on a variety of topics—humorous jokes, politics, finance, and the future. However, when we delved into business and investment, one particularly thought-provoking discussion emerged—one that highlighted the misplaced priorities in Africa’s economic strategy.

As a seasoned investor actively engaged in Africa, he raised a question that resonated deeply: Why do African governments spend vast sums of money on trips seeking foreign investors while neglecting local investors who are already operating in the market? He reasoned that local investors are the true backbone of the economy—entrepreneurs who have started businesses without government assistance, who have tested the market, and who understand both its challenges and opportunities. Yet, instead of supporting these individuals, governments often bypass them in favor of attracting foreign investors, some of whom may never actually commit to investing.

He posed another critical question: Why has African integration remained more of a theoretical discussion rather than a practical reality? Despite years of dialogue about the benefits of intra-African trade, African borders remain difficult to cross, with citizens requiring visas to visit neighboring countries. Meanwhile, those from outside the continent—whom African leaders often court for investment—enjoy fewer restrictions. He wondered why Africa does not have a single economic policy that facilitates trade and movement, benefiting the continent as a whole.

These discussions reminded me of a key principle I often emphasize to my clients: quick wins in business strategy. When developing a realistic strategy, it is essential to identify the simple yet impactful actions that can be achieved quickly—those where you already have an advantage.

The Power of Quick Wins in Business Strategy

Quick wins are those immediate, achievable steps that yield visible progress with minimal resources. In business strategy, they serve as confidence boosters, create momentum, and provide a foundation for tackling more complex challenges. However, many entrepreneurs and organizations overlook them in pursuit of grand, long-term goals.

Much like African governments prioritizing external investors while neglecting local businesses, some companies fixate on ambitious projects while ignoring the low-hanging fruit that could bring quicker and more sustainable success. A business that seeks international expansion but fails to optimize its existing customer base is making the same mistake. A company that invests heavily in new product development without first strengthening its market presence with existing products is missing the opportunity for a quick win.

How to Identify and Leverage Quick Wins

1. 1. Evaluate Existing Strengths – What is working well in your business? Can you build upon it before venturing into something new?

1. 1. Optimize Resources – Instead of seeking external funding or expansion, can you streamline operations to maximize efficiency and profitability?

1. 1. Enhance Customer Relationships – Strengthening loyalty and engagement with existing customers is often easier and more cost-effective than acquiring new ones.

1. 1. Leverage Strategic Partnerships – Collaborating with businesses that complement yours can open up new opportunities without heavy investments.

1. 1. Remove Unnecessary Barriers – Simplifying processes, whether internally or externally, can improve operational efficiency and customer experience.

Applying This Mindset to Africa’s Development

The parallels between business strategy and Africa’s economic approach are evident. Instead of endlessly discussing theoretical integration, African leaders could take actionable steps toward trade facilitation, ease of movement, and local investor support—quick wins that could lay the foundation for long-term prosperity.

Similarly, entrepreneurs and businesses must recognize that growth does not always come from chasing large, complex goals. Sometimes, the key to success lies in identifying and executing the simple, high-impact actions that drive momentum and sustainable progress.

So, as you craft your next strategy—whether for your business, investments, or career—ask yourself: What are my quick wins, and how can I leverage them for long-term success?The Quick Wins – What Do They Mean in Business Strategy?

About the author

Dr. Jjuuko Derrick, is a pharmacist with a keen business acumen. Having dedicated much of his career to engaging with business owners and employees, he brings a unique blend of pharmaceutical expertise and business insight to the table. As an entrepreneur himself, he is passionately committed to leveraging his technical skills and entrepreneurial experience to foster the growth and development of multiple businesses. Driven by a mission to make a meaningful contribution to the business landscape, he stands ready to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.