How can you build a culture of innovation across different time zones in your organization?

2 Encourage collaboration and feedback

The next step is to create a collaborative and feedback-rich environment where your team members can share ideas, insights, and opinions, and learn from each other. Use online tools and platforms that allow for synchronous and asynchronous communication, such as video calls, chats, forums, and wikis. Establish norms and guidelines for effective and respectful communication, such as setting agendas, respecting time zones, and giving constructive feedback. Celebrate successes and failures, and recognize contributions and efforts.

3 Provide flexibility and autonomy

The third step is to give your team members the flexibility and autonomy they need to work on innovative projects according to their preferences, styles, and schedules. Allow them to choose the tools, methods, and processes that suit them best, as long as they align with the vision and goals. Trust them to manage their own time, tasks, and resources, and provide them with the support and guidance they need. Encourage them to experiment, take risks, and learn from mistakes.

4 Promote diversity and inclusion

The fourth step is to leverage the diversity and inclusion of your team as a source of innovation and creativity. Recognize and appreciate the different perspectives, backgrounds, skills, and experiences that your team members bring to the table. Create a safe and inclusive space where everyone can express their ideas, opinions, and concerns without fear of judgment or discrimination. Foster a sense of belonging and community by organizing social and cultural events, such as virtual coffee breaks, trivia games, or book clubs.

5 Invest in learning and development

The fifth step is to invest in the learning and development of your team members, and help them grow their skills, knowledge, and confidence. Provide them with access to relevant and timely information, resources, and training that can help them generate and implement innovative solutions. Encourage them to seek feedback, mentorship, and coaching from you and other experts. Challenge them to take on new and stretch assignments, and support them along the way.

6 Review and improve

The final step is to review and improve your culture of innovation on a regular basis, and make adjustments as needed. Solicit feedback from your team members on what is working well and what can be improved. Analyze the results and outcomes of your innovative projects, and identify the best practices and lessons learned. Share your findings and recommendations with your team and other stakeholders, and implement the changes that can enhance your innovation performance and potential.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?