Technology drives innovation and change.
Business leaders are often challenged to assess whether their companies are on the cutting edge or lagging behind their competition. The characteristics of innovation and change in an organization include the continuing demands of technology. This daunting, yet not impossible task makes it even more critical for business and organizational leaders to stay ahead of their competition in order to lead in their respective industries.
Growth During Times of Cutbacks
It is not uncommon to hear news of factory closures, non-profit organizations going bankrupt and mass layoffs. For any company or business trying to stay ahead of the competition, this can be even more challenging if financial strains are part of the equation. Organizations can overcome economic crisis by using innovative ways to grow their staff. Volunteers can bring creative ideas to an organization, while serving their community. They can later be added to the ranks of paid staff, once the company survives its economic difficulties.
Teaching New Skills
Keeping your organization's staff up-to-date on the newest trends is an invaluable way to stay ahead of the competition. Staff can be trained in everything from use social networking sites for business to learning another language in order to attract new customers from around the world. Provide incentives for employees who speak other languages or who are going back to school to learn new skills or trades.
Set Realistic Goals for Growth
According to the Relationship Economics website, it is sensible for companies and organizations to decide how quickly they want to grow. However, setting unrealistic goals can be a detriment to any organization or company. The amount of growth can happen in small increments or according to the needs of the organization at the time. For example, if you would like to expand your organization's membership base, you can set quarterly or yearly goals as a measure of success.
Expand the Organization's Network
A company that continues to focus on expanding its network can survive even the toughest of economic times. Organizations that use online resources such as social networking sites can find prospective clients and business alliances. This is an inexpensive, rapid and surefire way to establish new business and organizational connections that can lead to growth and profit for companies and organizations.
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