Differentiating yourself from competitors is certainly one of the challenges that keeps business leaders awake at night. Innovation is a value that is often included in the statement ofassignment, vision et valuessince it means being one step ahead of the competition. But is this value really conveyed on a daily basis?
Valuing innovation also requires valuing creativity and, by extension, trial and error. In the words of Brené Brown, social worker, speaker and researcher in the humanities and social sciences:“There is no innovation and creativity without failure. Period.”[1] So are you really ready to innovate or are you still afraid of failure?
If you’re ready, creativity and innovation in the workplace offer its own benefits:
- The absence of invisible barriers, or a rigid way of doing things;
- A range of solutions to recurring problems that can save money, time and resources;
- A higher level of engagement from employees who are recognized for proposing adopted solutions;
- The development of working relationships, an increase in teamwork and talent retention.
Want to dive? Here’s how:
Support the creativity of your team members by allowing them to work on projects that are important to them. Invite them to suggest projects and/or participate in projects that are outside of their daily slot. For example, when you launch a new range of products or services, consider asking your employees from all departments to participate in branding, not just the marketing team or your external firm. Above all, don’t discourage ideas: they are all worth considering. Don’t forget either that creativity takes time. Outlandish ideas can inspire innovative and realistic ideas.
If innovation is valued in your company, the actions must necessarily be more meaningful than your company statement alone. Leave room for creativity without barriers, recognize any idea that arises, banish criticism of “bad ideas” from your practices. and give simmering ideas time to mature. The idea that will allow you to stand out from the competition may be in your receptionist’s subconscious! You can bet that you will sleep soundly afterwards!
SOURCE:
[1]Brené Brown. (2010, June). The power of vulnerability [Online video]. Spotted at:https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare
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Professional Coach & Trainer
