What is your IQ (Innovation Quotient)?

Dell Computer Company, Apple Computers, Microsoft, Google, and E-Bay share much more than only occupying space in the computer-sphere. Each of these businesses was founded by people who was not satisfied with the status-quo, who looked at the world differently, and constantly asked “why?”. These businesses not only started with an innovative idea but have thrived on continued innovation.

The December 2009 Harvard Business Review features innovation in business and published findings of research conducted over a six-year period. Among the interesting findings is that innovation starts with top person in a business. In the most innovative companies the CEO personally spends 50% more time innovating than leaders of other businesses.

The study determined that the most innovative people have these skills:

1. They are good at connecting-the-dots – associating diverse ideas

2. They are curious and constantly questioning and asking why.

3. They are keenly observant of the world around them.

4. They are constantly experimenting and conducting mental exploration.

5. They network with other individuals to test their ideas and get insight.

Like all skills these  are partially “genetic” but to a large extent can be learned and honed through continual practice. Leaders who are concerned about growing their businesses or even just surviving should look at developing their own innovation quotient and fostering innovation within their companies.

Will Limkemann
www.siqualtd.com