Do you wonder why you don’t hear many new ideas? Maybe you are doing something that kills their ideas before they can be explored or even verbalized.
I often see the following types of “personalities” that are particularly skilled at killing ideas (I’m using “he” to mean “he or she”):
The Problem Solver
The problem solver loves to fix things. His attention immediately goes to what won’t work, and the leader believes that he is helping by pointing this out upfront. He may say “The problem with that is …”
The Critical Cynic
The critical cynic distrusts everything new and is pessimistic about it. The cynic might say, “Get real” or rolls his eyes to express his displeasure.
The Director
The director is impatient and uncomfortable with anyone challenging him. He loves to tell people what to do, even if it doesn’t always make sense. He may say, “No! Don’t do that. Do this instead.”
The Avoider
The avoider is afraid of risk. The thought of risk causes anxiety and worry. He is unwilling to change without a burning platform. The avoider might say, “That will upset too many people.”
The Worker
The worker defines “working” as generating hard, measurable results right now. Time spent thinking creatively, is a cost to be avoided. He might say, “That’s a great idea. You can work on it, if you want to, but I still expect you to meet your current goals.”
The Naysayer
The naysayer has a pessimistic view of life and loves making excuses for things he “can’t” do. The naysayer would say, “If it’s such a good idea someone else is probably doing it,” or “No one would ever buy that.”
These personalities impact employees in the same way — it’s too hard to fight through your negativity and get the attention they feel their ideas deserve.
If you recognize any of these “idea killer” traits in yourself, try some of the following:
- If you are too busy, schedule a time when you can truly listen to someone’s idea.
- Verbalize any positive aspect of the idea first.
- Get comfortable with the messiness of innovation. Don’t overanalyze early.
- Show appreciation. Thank your employees for every new idea they generate.
- Implement new ideas. This shows that you are serious about innovation.
- Make it safe for employees to take a Praise the employees that implement their ideas, even when they fail.
- Give your employees the tools, resources and time to think creatively.
- Develop criteria for implementing new ideas, so employees will understand when you decide not to pursue theirs.
Valuable ideas live in the minds of everyone in an organization. Encourage your employees to share them with you.
Cheryl B. McMillan is the chair of Vistage International for Northeast Ohio, a leading international organizations for CEOs, presidents, business owners and senior executives.
