Who are these new breed of leaders called the corporate intrapreneurs? They are the forward- thinking employees within every organization that are constantly seeking ways to optimize resources and innovate existing processes for maximum impact and return.
According to Neal Thornberry in his recent book, Lead Like an Entrepreneur , internal entrepreneurs or corporate intrapreneurs can help businesses identify and create new growth-oriented business opportunities or leverage existing processes for maximum return.
As we all know sustained competitive advantage comes from using internal strengths to exploit opportunities and neutralize threats. An often untapped strength is the perspective that comes from an employee’s experience and insight. In many organizations this creative energy often goes unrealized. Organizations that encourage employees to explore innovation by recognizing risk taking are realizing new potential while developing new leaders within their ranks.
If you want to encourage intrapreneurship, Thornberry says you should create supporting sub-structures for intrapreneural activities including a recognition platform that celebrates both success and attempts (including failed efforts) to innovate.
Doing so builds momentum and encourages engagement. Companies that recognize innovative initiative have found that efforts to promote and recognize intrapreneurs have inspired and motivated others to pioneer as well.
Comments