“When we listen and celebrate what is both common and different, we become a wiser, more inclusive, and better organization.”
– Pat Wadors, CTO ServiceNow
Oftentimes, especially in times of success, innovation and general self-reflection can be overshadowed by the stress of day-to-day business operation. It might not seem necessary to reevaluate company culture and methods of production when nothing seems to be going “wrong.” Great leaders, however, are constantly looking for innovation, seeking inspiration through the inspection of both successful and unsuccessful environments. One large area of potential, in this regard, can be found through a focus on inclusion and new perspectives.
For many, some of the best ideas come from unexpected places. After time, going back to the same resources over and over when in pursuit of new ideas can prove fruitless and uninspiring. Therefore, some of the most forward-thinking organizations regularly employ several diverse perspectives. Grouping people together with opposing ideas may seem ripe for difficulties, but when they share similar ultimate goals within a business, more effective and creative ideas and solutions are typically developed.
Innovation in this regard does not necessarily mean involving people with differences for the sake of it, but rather establishing openness and encouragement for diverse thought, new perspectives, and constructive dialog within a company’s culture. The best way to cultivate this idea effectively is to address it in all areas of business, not just the hiring process. Everyone involved should be regularly made aware of the importance of diversity in thought and be actively engaged with practices that allow such thought to thrive.
Promoting an environment where all voices are represented and heard creates the best opportunity for new ideas and creative solutions. To achieve this effectively, it must be more than just refraining from silencing differing opinions. Successful organizations that shine in innovation actively seek out and promote a diversity in thought. Allowing this to define one’s culture can encourage others to do similar and work together for collective success.
Kelly D. Scott
Chairman/CEO
The world’s leading business advisory and executive coaching organization
