How to Apply Theories From a Business Book

You just finished a great business book. Inspiration has struck and you want to rush into work and apply all the theories you read in the wee hours the past few weeks. What is a good approach to use to ensure you accomplish your goal of using your newfound knowledge?

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A few theories from a recent business book you've read.
• Internet access
• Researched theory

Choose a Theory to Apply at Work

1. You most likely chose the book for a reason. Is that reason still valid in your workplace?
2. Make sure the challenge, problem, or issue is still relevant and you could do good by applying the theory you learned.
3. Pick one of the theories. Transitioning from reading a book to practicing in the workplace is a tough assignment. Once you get the first theory implemented, then attempt the second, third, fourth.

Research The Theory

4. Google search for Execute an internet search about the theory in your book.
5. Check the results to see if anyone else has had experience in implementing the theory. There will usually be a blog or two with some pearls of wisdom.
6. Check the results to see if anyone attempts to discredit the theory. You may not change your mind, but a contrarian point of view will give you great guidance in the implementation at your organization.

Apply the Theory

7. Meet with your manager. Depending on what level you hold within your organization, you should meet with your manager to discuss the opportunity.
8. Estimate how much time it would take to work on the theory implementation project. If this is part of your regular job, that is ideal. If approved, recruit some help to get the work done.
9. Develop the project plan. Ask these questions: what are we trying to solve/improve/change? Who will be impacted by the project? Why is it important to do now? Framing the project this way will help you translate from theory to practice.
10. Ensure you have some sort of measurement plan in place to show how well the theory is working - or not working.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a theory that others in your organization may be interested in as well.
• Don't try to change everything at once.
• A few extra sources will give more credibility to your plan.
• Credit your sources. Don't put forth thoughts, theories or work that someone else authored.