What is innovation? Is it doing something that has not been done before? Is it doing something that is common, but doing it in a new and unique way? Who are the best innovators of 2010? The answer is you! It is me! It is everyone who wakes up everyday determined to make life/business/the world a better place. It is he/or she who keeps on moving, although they often have no idea where they are going.
In business, I ask myself, how do those that are considered "innovative" become that way? Especially when you are 'running' a business! Who has the time for innovation? Who has the money or resources to be innovative? Again, it is you! It is me!
One way we can be foster innovation in our business/world is to talk with our customers or end users. This doesn't take alot of time or cost alot of money, but it is extremely effective for all of it's simplicity! Are you happy with my restaurant? What about the menu? What would you take off? What would you leave on? How about the pricing? Is it fair? If this was your restaurant, what would you do to make it thrive? If you take the time to ask, you will be surprised at the amount of phenomenal ideas and feedback that come your way!
Another way, is to empower your employees to look at your business from a growth/innovation standpoint, regardless of what "title" they hold, and ask them to point out problems along with suggestions for solutions. They are living and breathing this business from the ground up. Who better to ask? But... when you ask, be prepared for the answers. Foster an environment of respect and trust so that you get the whole picture, not just the rosy one that you want to see! Once your team realizes that you are 'open to all' feedback and 'value all suggestions', you will be amazed at the end result!
That is it for now... these are my thoughts for this afternoon. Enjoy!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment