How Should Companies Implement Strategies for Thinking Outside the Box?

Be open to new ideas and possibilities.

People like to live in the box. It is a safe place where habits, beliefs and limitations determine the potential outcome of thoughts and actions. Life outside the box is very different. There are no rules and no limiting beliefs. At first, this state of chaos and uncertainty can be disconcerting, but there is tremendous potential for innovation and growth.

Instructions

1. Create a work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated. If you are a manager or supervisor, take time to praise an employee for her work on a recent assignment. If a particular team has experienced difficulties, treat them to a catered lunch. When people feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to experiment with new ideas.

2. Institute an open door policy and invite employees to present their ideas for improving existing products and services. Alternatively, you could place a suggestion box in a strategic location and encourage clients and employees to contribute their ideas. Publicize the "Best Idea of the Month" in a newsletter or company blog.

3. Redecorate the workplace. Hire an organizer or consultant to create a more inviting work environment. The addition of a few plants and thought-provoking artwork, rearrangement of furniture and a fresh coat of paint can brighten up any room. Employees will feel more energized and more likely to come up with new ideas.

4. Encourage more participation during meetings. Most employees dread the Monday morning meeting and often tune out the presenters. Why not change the routine? Schedule the meeting on a different day and incorporate more icebreakers into the agenda. Rotate the role of facilitator; this will give each employee an opportunity to develop leadership and presentation skills. If conducted properly, meetings can be excellent places to encourage and promote the flow of creative ideas.

5. Get out of the building. During the warmer months, schedule lunch meetings in a nearby park. If funds permit, book a retreat day at a nearby resort or inn and include hiking, snowshoeing and other outdoor activities on the agenda. Encourage new and quieter employees to participate in more meetings and conferences outside the office.

References

• Out of the Box Marketing: How to Think Outside the Box in Marketing Your Business
• Business Week: How to Think Outside the Box