Beyond the Limits
of Uniformity —
Rethinking Hires to Ignite Innovation
Workforce diversity is a key driver of long-term growth . Yet it often runs counter to typical hiring strategies , which can unintentionally promote cultural fit at the expense of innovation .
Employing Virtual Reality in Business Development
Virtual reality ( VR ) has seen a recent surge in popularity . Businesses are using this new technology to interact with consumers in different ways — from communication to learning and shopping . Other niche industries are jumping on the VR bandwagon to experiment with the tool and test how it can improve company capabilities .
Before deciding to implement a VR platform in your business , determine what you hope to gain from its installation . Establishing goals in advance will help shape the message and guide proper usage of this exciting new tool .
On the Cutting Edge Check out these real-life examples of VR-in-business initiatives :
ÎReal Î Estate Reinvents the House Tour . Sotheby ’ s International Realty is using VR to sell homes . This technology allows realtors to give walkthroughs from a remote location , and lets them track what features grab the attention of the potential buyer . There is a cost associated with scanning a property for VR viewing , but Sotheby ’ s anticipates an uptick in luxury home tours in sprawling cities where residents can ’ t always attend open houses .
ÎMedical Î Practices Get an Upgrade . Several software companies have turned their VR efforts toward healthcare , using real-life diagnostic images from scans to provide doctors with a way to practice procedures ahead of time . VR tools can also provide cost-saving ways for patients to attend rehab post-operation or stroke , with cognitive and physical exercises .
The Challenge of Conformity
Standardized human resource practices are meant to foster consistency through predictable processes , while maintaining uniformity in employee standards . This practice promotes employee fairness and company transparency . In hiring , however , it can promote a homogeneous company culture made up of people who think alike . While cultural fit is important , hiring people who think alike may result in tunnel vision , stifled imagination , and limited creativity — preventing your business from embracing change and innovation
Diversity — The Key to Growth
Businesses need outside-the-box thinking in order to address the market forces they face . This is why diversity — working alongside people who aren ’ t like you — is so critical to long-term company success . On one hand , it invites alternative perspectives that awaken leadership to see competition and the path forward more clearly . On the other , it ’ s more likely to push beyond the established business model to explore creative ways to grow . In the end , you ’ ll have a team of forwardthinking , trend-savvy professionals . Willing to ask uncomfortable questions and propose inspiring solutions , they ' ll be better prepared to lead your company to new horizons .
DIVERSITY DEFINED :
“ The art of thinking independently together .”
– MALCOLM FORBES
CONNECT INNOVATION SUMMER 2016 // SNB . COM | 23