INNOVATION has been the main “focus-of-help” for the individuals and groups I have been working with over the last few months. Whether the area of development concern was managing growth, redesigning staff expectations and responsibilities or devising alternative ways of marketing to draw in new customers, the main ingredient of the solutions I proposed was: INNOVATION.

Hey…but guess what?  My INNOVATION-based solutions weren’t embraced?! Instead, the decisions were to use old-style solutions to resolve old-style problems.  And because I never know were ideas for important TRIPLE III TIME messages may come from…I could not pass up the opportunity to positively “spin” why INNOVATION NOW can/should be the priority.

First, think about all of the progress needs identified in the first paragraph.  I believe it is critical for leaders to drive INNOVATION in these areas.  What do I mean? I mean that leaders should begin progressive discussion by asking/suggesting “Did You Ever Try…?” just one simple new concept or initiative! Remember simplicity matters but also by initially asking for everyone’s input… you quickly lessen the “defensiveness-isms” (yes, I know it’s not a real word) that often kills INNOVATION.

Next as a problem-solving, progressive solutions leader you must be persistent in initiating your “Did You Ever Try…?” proposal.  Do not accept multiple excuses about how or why your INNOVATION may not work! Rather insist that because no one has tried the idea before… no one can truly testify to its workability.

Finally, if at all possible… leaders must progressively insert themselves into the implementation of the INNOVATION tryout.  Inclusion is a professional courtesy that often is not used effectively by leaders and thereby is not accepted by individuals or groups as part of the “Did You Ever Try…?” help process.  Instead the “change agent leaders” are just left on the outside looking in…and, unfortunately, aren’t able to provide the necessary longer-term continuous improvement “therapy”.

INNOVATION is just changing, improving to grow and thrive.  So, when a leader/co-professional suggests: “Did You Ever Try…?” think deeply about this TRIPLE III TIME message before you answer.