Set It And Forget It... Or Don't
Ron Popeil called. He wanted his tagline, “Set it and forget it,” back.
You know, the second hardest thing to installing an innovative idea inside a well-established company is sustaining the momentum needed to bring that innovation all the way through.
Having been in corporate America for a long time and getting bought out by a few big organizations, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges—and the learnings—that come with trying to innovate within a new corporate structure, never mind a well-established one.
So here are some tips and tricks for you innovators out there, trying to get momentum around cutting-edge ideas inside your organization.
1. Momentum is Not a One-Time Event:
When it comes to innovation, the set it and forget it mentality has to go out the door.
You’ve got to balance a combination of well-orchestrated and planned communication activities with all the serendipity and in-the-moment opportunities that come about.
This allows you to continue to relight the fire of the idea, gather more champions, and get the champions you have to make the new idea a part of today and tomorrow’s dialogue.
2. The Power of Pre and Post Communication:
For a long time, I focused on these big milestone events like plan-of-action (POA) meetings or innovation council meetings.
While most people just prepare for the meeting itself, our leaders took it a step further by planning pre- and post-communications ahead of time.
Pre-Event Communication:
Think about that big meeting happening a month from now.
Over the next four weeks, create multimedia opportunities for people to get involved with the big idea.
Script the key points you need to build energy around.
Determine the right order they should be previewed, then countdown by week:
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Get people involved beyond just reading—encourage action and participation.
Post-Event Communication:
Post-event communication is equally crucial.
While serendipity and in-the-moment opportunities will always play a part, having a framework for the next four weeks can help reinforce key ideas, break resistance, and recognize the champions aiding your process.
3. The Reality of Corporate Life:
Most people focus on the target—the meeting, the splash of the big idea—and hope that no one gets busy or distracted.
But we don’t work in fantasy land.
We can't set it and forget it.
Being intentional, well-designed, leveraging our champions, and tying our message into the daily imperfections and surprises of work life are what drive momentum and transformation.
What I Want You To Remember:
In the corporate world, sustaining innovation requires more than just a big idea. It demands continuous engagement, strategic communication, and leveraging both planned and spontaneous opportunities. By embracing these strategies, you can transform your big idea into a powerful movement within your organization.
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