First Time Managers Pivoting in Chaos with The Potential Center
It takes a lot of effort for managers to navigate through chaos, but shift we must. Photo by cottonbro on Pexels
What a crazy time it’s been, eh? But life and business go on, and we’ve all done our fair share of pivoting and shifting. Pivoting may be uncomfortable and you might resist shifting, but shift we must. As the pandemic showed, it takes a lot of effort to navigate through chaos.
It no longer suffices to do what you’ve always done, because new situations and problems require new solutions. As Daniel Priestley, author of “Oversubscribed” so perfectly said, “Many ideas that worked five years ago aren’t working any more. Everyone is under pressure to innovate and put results on the board.” New managers especially may find the current business environment a bit of a minefield.
How an innovation mindset can help
If you’re open to the idea, an innovation mindset can help you prepare for disruptions. Whether these disruptions are new opportunities or crises, they’re generally unplanned and they’re coming our way faster than ever. As the pace of change in all sectors continues to increase, asking the right questions and avoiding default ways of thinking is critical for organizations. It will not only keep the doors open, but also help them stay ahead of the competition.
Other benefits to building a culture of creative problem-solving include:
· Collaboratively working to meet challenges generates excitement and creativity.
· If you’re anything like me, you like having fun! Creative problem-solving produces fun and laughter, which reduces anxiety and tension. Which means staff are happier, and this means higher morale and that they’re more likely to stay.
· Does your team span two or more generations? Getting people working together creatively is the fastest way to break down generational barriers.
· For start-ups and nonprofits that are seeking funding, investors and funders look for products and services that stand out.
Managers pivoting with The Potential Center
You might be interested in hearing about some exciting things happening this year that will help you shift with more ease…
The Brainstorming Playbook
I’ve just finished “The Brainstorming Playbook” and, I have to say, it’s stellar. The Playbook includes:
· 4 ways to easily define the real problem that needs to be solved
· The logistics of session preparation to encourage participation, reduce time-wasting and ensure a successful outcome
· 7 ground rules for a safe, inclusive environment where creativity flows
· 4 types of brainstorming tools to help stimulate creative thinking
· Practical, tried-and-tested tips and resources
· Frameworks and models that will help your team expand their thinking and be more engaged in problem-solving
You can learn more about the Playbook here.
1 to 1 coaching for managers
I’m now offering 1 to 1 coaching for managers. The emphasis is on solving problems with creativity and leading team problem-solving. My experience in leadership training and coaching means we can address any workplace concern or opportunity to further develop skills. There’s more info about coaching here. Arrange a conversation here to see if this would be a good option for you or a manager in your team.
Light Bulb Moments™
For some time I’ve wanted to create a comprehensive learning program on creative problem-solving and innovation, with an emphasis on building stronger teams. I began this project during the pandemic. Light Bulb Moments™ is coming together nicely and I’m so excited about it! Between you and me, I think the program is going to be a knockout. Just to make sure that I have a robust product, the first version will be a beta. I’m only taking around 20 beta testers, at a greatly reduced investment. Perhaps there’s a manager in your organization that could benefit? Let me know if you’d like me to put them on the wait list. After the beta version I’ll be adding a VIP version which includes 1 to 1 coaching. Arrange a conversation with me here if you’d like to learn more about either the beta or the VIP program.
Mid range offering: your suggestion?
Later this year, I’ll be developing a mid range offering. Is there something in particular that you think would be useful for managers who are looking to create a culture of innovation and build a strong team in the process? I’d love to hear it! Send your suggestions to me at Ellia@ThePotentialCenter.com
The future is waiting to be created!
The future is waiting to be created! I look forward to supporting you and your team in developing the creative shortcuts that will work for you!
“I love Ellia’s coaching style - and her experience in corporate training was invaluable. She demonstrated how asking the right questions makes it easier to solve problems and reach a higher level of creativity and engagement. I would not hesitate to go back to Ellia for coaching when I need creative problem-solving guidance in the future!”