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Communicating Innovation
By Marion Grobb
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Innovation and thinking outside the box is predicated on ideas being welcome – on open communications. So how do we create a culture that encourages innovative thinking and sharing of ideas? Here are some strategies you can use:
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Report on training and conferences
When you attend a conference or receive training, share what you learn with your colleagues.
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Offer and consider new ideas
When you have a great idea, let people know. Equally, be receptive to others’ suggestions. Even if an idea isn’t feasible at this time, it may spark a chain of ideas and lead to one that is.
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Play!
Those who play together, stay together… and work together better. Sharing a few laughs or teambuilding ventures help to build bonds and rapport. It is this closeness that allows for frank and supportive communications.
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Share best practices
Why start from square one? Ask colleagues for input or offer some that would help a colleague. Information is only powerful when it’s shared.
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Atta girls/atta boys
Think about a recent success you’ve had, or one of your colleagues has had. Take a moment to recognize that accomplishment and then share what you learned with a colleague, employee or your boss. It’s not bragging, it’s giving information and helping others.
Per a recent survey, two-thirds of our organization believes that innovative thinking is welcome and encouraged. We have solid grounds for building open communications. By implementing some of the above suggestions or perhaps, some of your own, we can enhance the sharing of innovative ideas even further.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
This article is excerpted from a presentation entitled, “Breaking Silos … and Building Great Internal Communications” that Marion gave at the recent CFPSA regional conferences.
