Page 29 - IEC Insights Jul-Aug19

FEATURE

An innovative culture
begins with accepting
How to Create that the world really

has changed and
a Culture of being open to more
changes to come.

INNOVATION There are many pieces to the innovation
puzzle, and they will come together
differently for each organization.

How one goes about building an
innovative organization ought to be
unique. But for every organization, it starts
with the right mindset–the unexpected
must be expected.
Who would have thought that cell phones
would become cameras and music
players? Who would have thought that
ordinary, non-techie people would socially
connect with the global audience with
their personal devices?
This mindset must begin at the top of
the organization and permeate every
level. And most importantly, it includes
the intangibles of culture: the beliefs,
expectations, and sense of purpose of
those in the organization.
Creative thinking and collaboration can
be encouraged and rewarded, or in many
formal and subtle ways discouraged. It’s
the leader’s job to get it right.

Here’s what people might be thinking in a
non-innovative environment:
“Our company is too big to waste time on
small ideas.”

“We want new ideas, but I’m paid to make
my numbers on existing business.”

“I can’t remember manufacturing and
marketing ever talking about anything.”

“We’re doing fine; let’s let our existing line
peak before we try something new.”

“People are going to get cynical about all
BY MELISSA GRIGSBY these change initiatives.”

www.ieci.org | July/August 2019 | Insights Magazine 27