takes creativity.
Creativity is the number one leadership attribute needed for prosperity. “… it’s the lifeblood of sustainable competitive advantage.”
7 steps to create this creative culture include:
1. Fuel Passion– Passion (whether it be within a person, company, or both) must be supported by a sense of purpose. The bigger the purpose, the greater the potential to create more passion within the team. Examples of this include Steve Jobs who wanted to “put a ding in the universe.” Well, he did just that.
2. Celebrate Ideas– Although bonus checks are nice, the most effective way to celebrate creativity is with praise, career opportunities and perks.
3. Foster Autonomy– Creativity is self expression. It’s important to value your employee and to trust their judgment and work. You hired them for a reason (yet, if their work isn’t up to par, you should re-think your decision… obviously). It’s vital to “stand by, extend trust, and let them do their best work.”
4. Encourage Courage– TAKE SMART RISKS.
5. Fail Forward– I’m sure you’ve heard this before and are completely aware that you never know the outcome of a thought unless you try. Just remember, what doesn’t work, doesn’t work… it’s all part of the process, so you have to let it go and move on.
“Failing forward means taking risks and increasing the rate of experimentation.”
6. Think Small– Dear small companies, you’re at an advantage. Because you’re smaller, you’re not afraid to embrace change. In addition, you have a strong sense of urgency.
Dear large companies, there’s hope. The leaders at ITW believe “any time a business unit reaches $200 million in revenue, the division mutates into two $100 million units.”
7. Maximize Diversity– To have a diversified crew of people and thought, is one of the best things a company can do. “Genetic diversity breeds creativity.”
Read on: http://www.inc.com/articles/201106/josh-linkner-7-steps-to-a-culture-of-innovation_pagen_2.html