New Ideas Without an Outlet

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What is the best method for proposing new ideas to high-level executives in a company that has no such outlet?

I work for a large manufacturing company that has no outlet for getting new ideas from the lower ranks to high-level decision makers.

-- Trevor Reed (treed@henry.com), August 16, 2001

Answers

Trevor, If there is one thing that effective leaders appreciate, it is honesty. Beyond that, courage takes a close second. If you believe in the strength of your idea, think of it as elevating you to the highest level of innovator in your business. The strength of your idea will propel you, its owner, to the status you need to see eye-to- eye with your executive leaders.

Of course, I do not know your business, and there is always the chance that your particular company doesn't really respond positively to this kind of innovation. But don't let this discourage you. Companies have always been about making money. Today, visionary companies are achieving that end by empowering their organization - at every level - with the recognition that everyone has value and can make a meaningful contribution. Don't let your position influence your passion. Go for it, man!

Take the time to plan your approach. Try to learn from others who have 'climbed the ladder'. Incorporate your unique abilities, and take action. Don't forget to protect your ownership of the idea, either. Document your creation date, file for a patent, mark it with copyright, whatever. But make sure that as the idea gains merit in the business, your name is so closely associated with it, that no one can take the creation of the idea away from you. By the way, this is precisely why you must trust the idea and its abilty to perform.

Best wishes, Bruce Eberle

'Well begun is half done" - Aristotle

-- Bruce Eberle (beberle@myavista.com), August 21, 2001.


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