There is growing hesitation with using the word innovation in the workplace today. Executives have become cautious that a radical turn of the word would shift the way the business is run. Certainly there is some reason for the fear, yet, according to business consultants, this fear can be eliminated through certain strategies, three of which are described below:
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| Image Source: fortune.com |
Establish ranks: One great way to encourage innovation is to highlight and rank values the company considers important. Scores of business studies made in the last few years have concluded that when employees are not sure of their company’s priorities, their performances suffer. Analysts make parallels to children taking after their parents: employees reflect the goals of the company. Executives can also reinforce non-conformity by asking new employees to question them (politely) on both long- and short-term goals.
Gather information: It is untrue that everyone in the organization has access to the same information. This involves security considerations. But there are also compromises that can be made -- particularly when it comes to brainstorming. Leaders should assess how much and which information to give to their team of innovators.
Recognize the creatives: This is not the same as choosing favorites. However, executives should recognize who among their employees are innovators and have a creative personality. These people’s "votes" should count for more when original concepts. Studies have shown that innovators who are given the opportunity to provide candid, unbiased feedback are more encouraged to entertain unconventional ideas.
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| Image Source: cnbc.com |
Leading a culture of innovation is not a simple task: It does require the leader to be constantly diligent. That being said, business coaches still encourage the practice as it helps pull the company to greater heights.
Emile Haddad breaks convention and is an innovative business leader and coach. Learn more business and leadership insights when you like this Facebook page.
