Change is tough, especially in an innovation organization. Whether implementing a new process or rolling out that next big idea, it can feel like steering a ship with a toothpick. But what if change felt less like a storm and more like an adventure?
That’s where storytelling comes in—turning the groans into excitement. The right story can frame change as the *next step* in your innovation journey, getting everyone on board with energy instead of resistance.
Ever Been Here?
Your innovation team hits a wall when rolling out fresh initiatives. Sound familiar? Good news: storytelling can be the key to breaking through.
Pro Tip: Storytelling for Innovation Change
1. Anchor in Core Values: Show how this change fits your company’s DNA—whether it’s about pushing boundaries or staying ahead of the competition.
2. Use breadcrumbing: Look backward over your evolution, highlighting the transformations in mindset, processes, technologies, people, and business models that got you here.
2. Visionary Storytelling: Paint a picture of the future so compelling the team can’t wait to get there.
3. Heroes of Innovation: Highlight key players—those innovation trailblazers that have and are making it happen.
4. Tackle Challenges Head-On: No fairy tales here. Acknowledge roadblocks and show how your team will power through. It’s not about pretending that it’s easy; it’s about the challenges being manageable when tackled together.
With these storytelling steps, you’ll turn your innovation narrative into a rallying cry that aligns and energizes your entire team.
