In this video Lynda Gratton, authors of The Shift, explains how can we face our future at work. She considers that future is already here, that it is full of paradoxes or contradictions and that we have to change our way of thinking to include three ideas: hypersperspecialization, collaboration and creativity. All related with Open Innovation.
First of all, Gratton suggests that we have to change the way we look at our skills. There was a time that people thought that they needed to have general knowledge: knowing a bit of everything. But, now, hyperspecialization is recognized as a key competitive advantage. Open Innovation often looks to tap this hyperspecialized knowledge base, to resolve challenges.
Secondly, she states that collaboration creates value. This is achieved because there are a lot of ideas “out there” that need to be connected, which is the essence of Open Innovation. Modern communication tools facilitate the creation of international communities that enable its members to collaborate, co-create and share ideas. This is what we are working towards our community at Blendhub.
The future of work. Don’t forget creativity
Finally, she believes that the model “you work – to get money – to buy stuff that makes you happy” is obsolete. This is because work is an essential part of our lives and we need to find meaning in what we do. Passion is essential for innovators.
