4 Dos and Don'ts to Inspire Innovation in the Workplace

When hiring, management in all fields seek the best and the brightest. But, is leadership also unwittingly sabotaging the brain potential of employees by failing to cultivate talent?

To maximize performance and reach potential, keeping minds engaged, creative, and inspired is key. Follow these brain-based tips to improve productivity, enhance creativity and reduce stress at the office.

DON’T Rely on rote.

DO Nourish higher order critical thinking skills on a daily basis.

Too many tasks that require regurgitating and downloading massive amounts of detailed information squelches creative thought. Give team members opportunities to learn, synthesize, and generate new ideas. Encourage individuals to move beyond rote responses and work to construct and offer different points of view to engage the brain and stretch its capacity.

DON’T Endorse multitasking.

DO Promote prioritizing and strategic execution.

Multitasking fatigues the brain and makes it less efficient. Increase productivity by guiding team to regularly establish top priorities and by creating an environment that encourages individuals to focus deeply without distractions on one task at a time, even if for just 15-minute intervals.

DON’T Let speed rule.

DO Encourage slower, more thoughtful responses on important projects.

The fastest answer is often not the best. Allow time to review and think through ideas. Such weighed thinking will turn superficial, uninspired replies into meaningful responses.

DON’T Be okay with status quo.

DO Take advantage of fresh eyes and minds.

Hone critical reasoning skills and spark innovation by asking questions, such as, “What are three take home messages from that meeting? How might we respond differently to an issue discussed? What do you think are best steps to follow up?”

Gain the skills to make sure you are inspiring and challenging the next generation to innovate, not duplicate.