Innovation isn't just a buzzword reserved for tech startups and research labs—it's the lifeblood of established organizations, from corporate giants to government institutions. As the pace of change accelerates, the shift from traditional 'research and development' to 'corporate innovation' is more than just semantics. It represents a deeper need for agility, adaptability, and a forward-thinking approach.
Organizations pursuing innovation typically aim for two core outcomes:
- Adopt New Solutions: Embrace emerging technologies, methodologies, or business models to keep their offerings fresh and competitive.
- Cultivate a Lasting Innovation Culture: Create systems and allocate resources to ensure innovation becomes a continuous, sustainable process—not just a temporary initiative.
However, while it’s easy to rebrand your processes with trendy terms, real innovation demands more than a change in vocabulary. It requires a team of genuine 'innovation evangelists'—individuals who not only talk the talk but walk the walk. Over the years, I've seen both true champions of innovation and those who merely masquerade as such. Here's how to tell them apart.
1. The 'T-Type' Knowledge Holder vs. The Buzzword Bandit
A true innovation evangelist embodies 'T-type' expertise: a mix of deep vertical knowledge in their field and broad horizontal insights across industries. This unique combination enables them to apply innovative thinking to various contexts and drive real change. On the flip side, a fake evangelist often dazzles with jargon but lacks the practical experience needed to back it up. They might know the buzzwords but struggle to translate them into actionable strategies.
2. The Value Creator vs. The Situation Surfer
Genuine innovation evangelists create value against all odds. They navigate challenging environments, build bridges between teams, and deliver measurable outcomes. They aren't reliant on their organization's brand, sector stability, or geographical advantages to shine—they make their own success. The imposters? They often leverage existing advantages, contributing little new value and relying on circumstance rather than skill.
3. The Big Picture Thinker vs. The Busy Body
Real innovation leaders not only understand the 'big picture' but also communicate it effectively. They align their actions with strategic goals, ensuring every step moves the organization forward. The pretenders, however, often confuse activity with productivity. They might work hard, but their efforts can lead the organization off course—like a ship's captain paddling frantically without a compass.
4. The Strategy Sharer vs. The Information Hoarder
Transparency and collaboration are the hallmarks of a real innovation evangelist. They document strategies, create actionable plans, and share knowledge freely to build collective progress. Fake evangelists, in contrast, hoard information to maintain control. They thrive in ambiguity, often creating barriers rather than breaking them down.
5. The Silo Breaker vs. The Turf Protector
Innovation can't thrive in isolation. Real evangelists work tirelessly to break down silos, fostering collaboration and cross-functional communication. They aren't afraid to challenge the status quo, even when it threatens their own territory. Fake evangelists, however, guard their 'turf' defensively, often resisting change unless it serves their own agenda.
6. The Lifelong Learner vs. The Deflector
A genuine innovation leader embraces continuous learning. They acknowledge their gaps, seek feedback, and adapt accordingly. They understand that leading innovation means being vulnerable enough to say, "I don't know, but I’ll find out." Conversely, a fake evangelist often deflects blame, avoiding accountability when things go wrong and stalling the organization's progress.
7. The Adaptable Communicator vs. The Perpetual Victim
True evangelists excel at communicating with diverse audiences. They tailor their messages to resonate with different stakeholders, recognizing that change is a process that requires empathy and strategic storytelling. Fake evangelists, on the other hand, often feel misunderstood and victimized by resistance. They see opposition as an attack, not as an opportunity to refine their approach.
Conclusion
The difference between a genuine innovation evangelist and a fake one isn't always immediately obvious. It requires looking beyond surface-level enthusiasm to evaluate the real impact and mindset of the individual. True innovation leaders build sustainable frameworks, empower their teams, and drive long-term success. By recognizing these seven indicators, organizations can cultivate a team of real innovation evangelists, ensuring that their journey towards transformation is not just a phase but a defining part of their culture.
