What do you do if your feedback is not fostering innovation in a Business Innovation setting?

If your feedback is not fostering innovation in a business innovation setting, reframing is something that can help. Ensure that feedback sessions include input from a diverse range of stakeholders, including employees from different departments, levels of experience, and backgrounds. This diversity can bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table, sparking innovation. Create a culture where employees feel safe to share their ideas and take risks without fear of judgment or retribution. Psychological safety encourages experimentation and creativity, leading to more innovative solutions. Instead of critiquing ideas, focus on problem-solving and collaborative brainstorming sessions. Encourage participants to explore multiple solutions.

In my experience, reframing feedback to focus on possibilities rather than limitations can ignite innovation. It's about shifting the narrative from what went wrong to what could be improved or explored further. Encourage your team to see feedback as a springboard for creativity and innovation rather than as criticism. By fostering a culture of possibility, you empower your team to approach challenges with a fresh perspective and a sense of optimism.

In the past, when the feedback of in-and external stakeholders wasn't fostering innovation we've used several methods to try to improve the quality of their feedback. For example by organising a debate, and splitting up people in different teams having to either 'sell' the idea or explain why it wouldn't work at all. Often this led to lots of fun and new arguments. Or we'd invite them to play different roles, and ask questions and give feedback from their assigned roles. Alternatively, we asked them all to interview unknown people on the street to gain new insights.

Dialogue is the lifeblood of innovation. Instead of merely delivering feedback, create opportunities for open dialogue where ideas can flow freely. Actively seek out diverse perspectives and encourage constructive debate. By fostering a culture of open communication, you create an environment where innovation thrives and breakthrough ideas emerge from collaborative efforts.

Timing plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of feedback. Consider providing timely feedback that is actionable and relevant to the current stage of the project. By offering feedback in real-time, you empower your team to make immediate adjustments and course corrections, keeping the momentum of innovation going. Remember, feedback is most impactful when it is timely, specific, and actionable.

Recognize that each individual on your team has unique strengths, weaknesses, and preferences when it comes to receiving feedback. Take the time to understand each team member's communication style and tailor your approach accordingly. By personalizing your feedback, you demonstrate empathy and respect for individual differences, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration where innovation can flourish.

Rather than dwelling on weaknesses, focus on amplifying strengths. Celebrate achievements and acknowledge areas where team members excel. By recognizing and reinforcing strengths, you boost morale and confidence, empowering your team to leverage their unique talents in pursuit of innovation. Encourage a culture of continuous improvement where team members are inspired to build on their strengths and push the boundaries of innovation.

Ensure that your team has access to the resources they need to turn feedback into action. Whether it's providing training, allocating time for experimentation, or investing in technology and tools, support your team in their innovation journey. By providing the necessary resources, you remove barriers to innovation and empower your team to turn feedback into tangible results.

Consider fostering a culture of psychological safety where team members feel comfortable taking risks and sharing bold ideas. Encourage experimentation and embrace failure as an opportunity for learning and growth. By creating a supportive environment where innovation is celebrated and mistakes are viewed as stepping stones to success, you cultivate a culture of continuous innovation and drive business growth.