As a seasoned consultant, I've seen my fair share of corporate struggles. Today, I want to share some insights on how to breathe new life into your business, even if you've been burned by innovation attempts before.

The Innovation Hangover

Let me start with a story. A president of a huge multinational company once confided in me after a merger:

"Jeanie, we did it. But you need to show us a better way. I don't think my health or that of our employees could survive something like that again."

Sound familiar? Many leaders I work with feel this way. They're tired, maybe a bit jaded, but they know standing still isn't an option.

So, what's the solution? Enter intrapreneurship.

Intrapreneurship: Your Secret Weapon

Think of intrapreneurship as innovation from within. It's about creating new opportunities while working with what you've already got. No need to blow up your entire business model!

Here's the kicker: it's not just about new products or services. Intrapreneurship can revolutionize how you operate, boosting efficiency and morale along the way.

Measuring Success (Without the Headaches)

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Sounds great, Jeanie, but how do we know it's working?"

Fair question. Here's my two-part answer:

1. NEWCO™ Mapping

We use a tool called NEWCO (Networked Economy of Working Capitals and Opportunities) to spot hidden potential. It's like a treasure map for your business, revealing valuable assets you might be overlooking.

2. The 5 T's of Measurement

Forget complex spreadsheets. We focus on five simple indicators:

1. Time: Are people willing to invest their time in new ideas?
2. Talent: Is hidden expertise coming to light?
3. Treasure: Are folks putting their money (or other resources) where their mouth is?
4. Trust: Is information flowing more freely?
5. Talk: Is the buzz around the office positive and constructive?

Spotting Success in Action

Here's the cool part: Once you know what to look for, you'll start seeing signs of progress everywhere.

Maybe it's an employee using new lingo they picked up from a project. Or a team freely sharing information they used to guard closely. These are all good signs!

Your Next Steps

Ready to uncover the hidden treasures in your business? Here's what you can do:

1. Take a fresh look at your team. What untapped skills are lurking beneath the surface?
2. Foster an environment where ideas flow freely. You never know where the next big breakthrough will come from.
3. Start small. Look for quick wins to build momentum.

Remember: Every thriving business started somewhere. Why not start your journey today?

Want to dive deeper? Keep an eye out for my upcoming book, The Power of Hidden Treasures. It's packed with stories of companies who've turned their hidden assets into game-changing opportunities.

Don't let past setbacks hold you back. Your company's next big leap forward might be hiding in plain sight!

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