The Number One Way to Encourage a Culture of Innovation
While I am sure I will write more on creating a culture of innovation in the future, today I would like to pass on to you the number one way to achieve a culture of innovation.
Everyone wants to have a culture of innovation; or at least everyone says they want a culture of innovation. Be warned that innovative organizations can be a very disruptive place, and as a leader, you will need effective change management strategies.
Here it is, the number one way to encourage an innovative culture, is to implement innovative ideas. Do not hear me wrong, this is not a codependent statement; I am not saying that in order to have a culture of innovation you need to be innovative. What I am saying is that when people in your organization suggest an innovative idea and you drop it, you have just discouraged them and everyone else from even suggesting another innovative idea. You must learn to push forward innovative ideas, to see where the trail goes. Not all ideas will make it to the finish line, but in order to have a culture of innovation you must start by actually implementing ideas.
Try this! Think of the last innovative idea that was suggested by a member of your staff, something that you could implement in a short period of time. It may be as simple as re-arranging your office space for a more productive environment. Now act on that idea; put it into action. Once that idea has been implemented for a month or two call a staff meeting. Praise the person who suggested the idea, and comment how it has improved productivity. Then ask your staff if they have other innovative ideas that will improve your organization, even if the ideas are incomplete. You will be amazed at what your staff will come up with.
Continue to follow-up with your staff about the ideas that they suggested. Even if you cannot implement the innovations immediately, sharing your plans with your staff will continue to encourage a culture of innovation.
