It’s one of those terms that you hear everywhere. And it’s a bit of a buzzword at times.

Very simply, business innovation is the art of introducing new ideas; new ways of doing things. Perhaps new products, new services.

So many people overcomplicate this.

They might Google the hell out of it. Or find themselves reading books upon books upon books.

It’s actually very simple if you boil it down;

if you’re looking for new ideas, new ways of doing things, perhaps new services to offer or products to develop.

Look Around

Those closest to you will actually give you the best advice, provided you allow them.

And that’s a key thing.

Because most of the time when we ask people for advice, they have to make a mental note;

“Do I actually give this person actual, honest advice here? Or do I tell them what I know they want to hear?”

Ask Questions

So, perhaps if you open up the those closest to you and say;

“I’d really appreciate your advice on this. Your honest advice. No bullshit. Is there any way I can perhaps do things better? Is there any new product, or new service I could offer?

Is there a better way I could do things?”

So, who do you go to?

Those closest to you.

If you’re discussing innovation, you’re thinking of your business. So ask your employees, your colleagues, your advisors.

 The people you work with are going to be really, really valuable provided you give an open forum – some might be a little apprehensive.

The People You Live With

Whether this is your family or not, those you live with are seeing you day in day out.

They’re going to see how you work and how you approach your day over time.

Your Family

People who know your product and you so well can really provide insight into things sometimes.

Perhaps they can be really innovative as regards your approach to business and your approach to yourself in business.

Or even small things such as packaging – something as small as that.

Your Customers

Your customers are the best people to tell you what they would like more of. Or where you could improve.

Anyone who has a relationship with you or your business could potentially have insight. 

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There’s a little bit of vulnerability involved in doing that. In opening yourself up to whatever people might say. But the value you get from it will dramatically outweigh perhaps whatever embarrassment you might have to suffer, or uncomfortable things you might have to hear.

And that’s something I speak about a lot here –  in the power of vulnerability. I think it helps build stronger and more authentic connections both in life and as a holistic business coach.

Business innovation when you break it down it is so, so simple.

I hope you lean into those around you, you open yourself up to whatever recommendations they give you and you business.