Setting OKRs is a strong first step, but the real challenge—and reward—comes from maintaining OKRs. Too often, businesses put time and effort into creating business objectives at all levels, only for them to lose traction after a few months. The problem isn’t the framework; it’s the way it’s embedded. Without ongoing commitment, OKRs become a short-lived exercise rather than a long-term driver of growth.
OKRs are designed to drive continuous improvement, but they only work if they remain an active part of day-to-day business. When companies fail to embed them properly, they lose out on the true benefits: alignment, accountability and measurable progress. This is why internal champions are so valuable. Businesses that create in-house OKR expertise continually set high quality and clear objectives, maintaining OKRs with consistency and focus.
Why your OKRs are losing momentum?
The early enthusiasm for OKRs often fades when businesses underestimate what’s required to maintain them. Leaders might assume that once objectives are set, the work is done. But without structured check-ins, regular reviews and team-wide accountability, OKRs quickly become static goals.
Another common issue is dependency on external support. Many businesses bring in consultants to help set up their OKRs but fail to build the internal capability to sustain them. As soon as that external guidance steps away, OKRs lose their impact. Businesses need a framework that ensures OKRs remain a living, breathing part of operations rather than a one-off project.
The role of internal champions
For OKRs to succeed long-term, they need people within the business who can lead the process and ensure alignment with strategy. These internal champions act as the bridge between leadership and daily execution. They understand how to set ‘gold standard’ OKRs that will help the organisation grow in the right direction, all while becoming a better leader.
The mistake many companies make is assuming that OKR ownership sits solely with leadership. While executive buy-in is important, successful OKRs require engagement across all levels of the business. Internal champions help teams understand not just what their objectives are, but why they matter and how they contribute to wider business success.
Building OKR expertise in-house
Developing internal OKR capability is one of the most effective ways to ensure OKRs remain impactful. This is where OKR training becomes valuable. Instead of relying on external consultants indefinitely, businesses that invest in training their own people build a self-sustaining OKR culture.
The TBG Academy provides structured OKR training designed to equip internal champions with the skills needed to keep OKRs on track. Recognised by the CMI, the training goes beyond theory, focusing on practical strategies for crafting high quality OKRs, running effective check-ins and maintaining accountability.
Our Coach Academy is a blend of e-learning and video workshops, made up of 12 modules. We offer flexible delivery options, including closed cohorts for organisations, and training can be spread out over a period that suits your team. We also facilitate face-to-face training at your location if preferred.
Making OKRs stick
OKRs shouldn’t feel like an extra task or an abstract leadership exercise. When embedded correctly, they become part of how the business operates. Open discussions about progress and a willingness to refine objectives when necessary all contribute to maintaining OKRs in a meaningful and effective way.
If you’re looking to strengthen OKR capability in-house, get in contact with one of our experts at There Be Giants or contact our Head of Academy, Joanna, for more information on OKR training.