Tip of the Day: Create a Culture that Welcomes Innovation

The word "innovation" often evokes images of the latest wearable gadget, cutting-edge smartphone or Tesla’s new super-SUV, which somehow packages a high-performance electric engine, state-of-the-art safety features and an apocalyptic defense system into one sexy package.

But while tech is an important piece of the innovation puzzle, "Innovation doesn’t begin or end with changes in technology," said Gabie Boko, executive vice president of marketing at Sage. "It’s a change in thinking that results in a different approach to how you do business."

The most effective way to foster innovation in your business is through company culture, according to Boko. Openness without fear of repercussion is essential. "From business strategy to the brand of coffee in the break room, nothing should be off limits," she said. "Small business owners should let employees know they encourage thinking out of the box and they shouldn’t let the current conventions or processes bog down creativity."

Boko advised that after innovation is successfully imbedded within a company’s culture small-business owners will:

• Excite and engage staff members
• Provide customers with the best products, services and experiences
• Give prospective clients a reason to interact
• Gain new customers