Creating an innovative culture is a noble goal, but it can be daunting. Your team members might be afraid to bring their ideas to the table. They may fear criticism or consequences for sharing an opposing viewpoint. Leaders can also fear innovation. In fact, a McKinsey study shows that 80 to 90% of executives say innovation is a top priority, but only 6% are satisfied with their performance.
For a true spirit of innovation to take hold, it must start at the top and involve employees at all levels. Bonnie Monych, a performance specialist for Insperity, says people in all roles at your organization should be encouraged to contribute ideas to do things better or faster. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share her ideas on how leaders can foster employee innovation.
1. Make it easy to share ideas. This is the first step in creating an innovative culture. Your team members should feel encouraged to contribute their ideas or come to you with questions. When they have opportunities to be innovative and contribute to your company’s mission and goals, they are often more engaged. Monych says employees feel a part of a whole and see how their work moves the business forward.
2. Provide the necessary resources. These resources, according to Monych include time, budget and encouragement. There never seems to be enough time, she says, so build time in for brainstorming, research and testing. When it comes to budget, make sure everyone on your team has access to what they need to be innovative. Think through the costs and see how you can make room in your budget for things like training or digital tools. The most innovative workplaces also have highly encouraging leaders. Try suggesting books or articles on creativity to encourage people to share their ideas. Or show your team members how nearly every job can be done better or differently – not just the “creative” roles.
3. Promote flexibility and freedom. When employees can work in the manner that suits them best, they’re more likely to be innovative. Some people thrive in an office setting, while others work better remotely. Monych says innovation can flourish when productivity and employee engagement are at their peak. So, if possible, give your employees some flexibility in how and when they do their work.
4. Build a diverse team. If everyone on your team comes from the same background, has the same skill sets and mindsets, and belongs to the same generation, you’re not benefitting from different viewpoints. For innovation to make a real difference, Monych says you need a variety of ideas.
5. Work to individual strengths. To foster innovation at work, leaders need to ensure their employees are using their skills effectively. Maybe they shine in an area that doesn’t necessarily align with their job description. If that’s the case, see how they can work more in their zone of genius.
When your team is more comfortable taking risks and trying new things, you can enhance individual and organizational performance. Keep the ideas above in mind to create a more innovative workplace.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Bonnie Monych is a performance specialist for Insperity. She’s also the author of Get Your Shift Together: The Secret to Working with Multiple Generations in the Workplace.