"Without change, there is no innovation, creativity or incentive for improvement. Those who initiate change will have a better opportunity to manage the change that is inevitable." Those are the worlds of American physicist William Pollard and are just as true in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world as ever.
Innovation is essential for any organization's success. As a leader, fostering this type of culture and navigating through change is crucial to achieving long-term growth and sustainability.
Let’s look at how innovative leadership can thrive through change - especially in uncertain times.
What does a leader who understands change and innovation look like?
It may sound obvious but innovative leadership needs to be about embracing change and leading your team through transformation.
Change management and adaptability are key skills that leaders must have to make this happen. A growth mindset and a willingness to take risks are also crucial, as they encourage creativity and innovation.
Disruption can often be seen as a negative thing, but nowadays with so much change in the world happening so quickly, it can be an opportunity for growth and transformation. Agile leaders can navigate these situations. They’re on point with flexibility and quickly adapt to changing circumstances.
An innovative leader also has a strong vision for the future. Rather than thinking about what comes next, they are thinking of what comes two or three steps down the road. They’re able to give their team a clear direction to work towards.