Innovation isn’t just having a new idea. Innovation happens when there’s a change from the way things were previously done.
And, although factors, such as stiff competition and limited budgets, contribute to a lack of innovation, innovation is still conceivable for your independent community pharmacy with a change in mindset and behavior.
Rid your business of these seven habits that stifle innovation.
1. Thinking that meetings are enough
Great ideas are just the start. Although holding regular team meetings likely inspires innovative thought and new ideas, you have to go beyond the conversation—and put those thoughts into action.
For example, if health screenings get brought up at a team meeting, that idea is a great start. But what happens next? Who takes that idea and turns it into reality? You need to set a formal process to nurture those innovative ideas.
(Productive meetings lead to innovation. Use these tips to make pharmacy team meetings more productive and enjoyable.)
2. Being afraid of failure
Innovative companies don’t let the fear of failure influence their attempts to revolutionize their business.
A failed attempt just means you’ll learn from the experience. Go ahead and implement that new product or start that new service. There’s no time like the present.
3. Lacking communication
Ineffective communication can disrupt the innovation process.
Make sure your employees know what’s happening in your business. Start communicating why you’re implementing a new idea early in the process, and be sure to continue to communicate throughout the entire change. And, be open to feedback. Employee insights can improve your new venture.
It’s also imperative to communicate with patients when you implement a new service or procedure. You want to ensure they’re informed and excited about the new customer experience at your pharmacy.
For example, if patients are unaware that your pharmacy is now offering patient consultations, they’ll probably choose to visit a physician over your pharmacy.
4. Losing motivation
In order to innovate your pharmacy, you have to be inspired. And, there’s no time to lose motivation when you’re looking to improve your business.
If you’re feeling uninspired, get out of your typical environment and change things up. Taking simple steps to stay motivated is all you need to keep innovative thoughts flowing.
5. Leaving innovation to the competition
Trying something new or different can be scary.
It’s easy to feel like you just want to leave novelty to the big guys and keep doing what you’re doing.
However, anyone can think big. And, your business has a team of smart pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and non-pharmacy staff.
Encouraging individuality, rewarding progress and nurturing a mentality of “thinking big” at your pharmacy can lead to those innovative ideas that will keep your pharmacy relevant in the marketplace today.
6. Being resistant to change
Change is hard. And, for some, it might be unwelcome.
It’s easy to say, “That’s just the way we do it.” It’s hard to get out of a routine, and it’s difficult to think the method you’re familiar with isn’t the best.
But innovation is inherently about change. And if your competition is figuring out ways to steal your patients while you’re doing things the way you’ve always done them, isn’t there something wrong there?
7. Innovating too late
The pharmacy industry changes fast.
If your business isn’t up-to-speed, patients might choose to go elsewhere, to pharmacies that have new and exciting offerings or better experiences.
When it comes to innovation, don’t be the one who follows the bandwagon. Be the leader.
Check out these other challenges of innovation.
