How to sell your ideas as an Intrapreneur

Harry Isenstein  Newcastle 2/11/18

Entrepreneurs Society, Newcastle University

If you are an intrapreneur it’s likely that you will come up with ideas for your company regularly, and they may radically change the way that the business operates forever- at least you’d like to think so.
In your mind, this radical change is certain to bring success for your company. But how do you convince others that it will? Or more importantly, how do you help them ​see​ the potential in your idea?

Firstly, ​are you in a position to suggest this change?

It doesn’t matter how good your idea is, if your reputation isn’t at its best, then this will affect how your ideas are perceived. Nowadays, companies are more forward-thinking in accepting the notion that great ideas can come from anywhere within the company, so your career progress shouldn’t matter as it is out of your control. However, the way you have performed within the role is fully under your control, and if you haven’t performed to your best then the idea could be ignored. So, before suggesting new ideas make sure that your performance makes you an employee ​worth​ listening to.

Secondly, ​how will you gain your company’s trust?

Don’t just sell your idea, ​show​ it in action. If there is a practical element to it, build it. By creating something real, you can attract others’ attention and simplify their understanding of what you have in mind.
Often ideas make sense to our own selves when we present them , but they may be interpreted by others in a completely different way. Building your idea allows others to understand it from your point of view, as well as forming their opinion of it.
They may elaborate on it and contribute with fresh perspectives and information you did not have.
Communication is always key within a company, especially when you are an intrapreneur.

To summarise, if you want to sell an idea:
Prove yourself, speak up, gain trust, build, listen, and, finally, collaborate. 

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