We live in a transformative business age: how we work, approach problems, and deliver value to business and society are changing. In order to stay on top, people must work together and collaborate to pool their collective experiences and knowledge so that we can break our own biases, perceptions, and limitations to forge new paths.

Collaboration is one of the core five pillars of RSM’s DNA; we live by it every day. Effective collaboration involves the pooling of diverse perspectives and expertise. By sharing knowledge and ideas openly, teams can generate a wider range of potential solutions. This collective intelligence fosters creativity and innovation, as individuals are encouraged to build upon each other's thoughts and challenge existing assumptions. The result is a more comprehensive and effective approach to problem-solving.

To develop an even stronger culture of collaboration, we at RSM Europe have developed a program to bring together diverse groups of people to fuel creative thinking. The Forward Sprint is a dynamic initiative aimed at cultivating a new generation of innovative leaders within the middle market business landscape. By fostering collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving, this program empowers early-career professionals to drive positive change.

The power of collaboration

The cornerstone of innovation lies in bringing together diverse perspectives. The Forward Sprint brings together young professionals from across Europe, creating a melting pot of ideas and experiences. By working collaboratively in teams, participants are encouraged to challenge assumptions, build upon each other's strengths, and develop comprehensive solutions to complex business challenges.

Targeting early-career individuals is a strategic move. These professionals possess a fresh outlook, unburdened by established industry norms. Their enthusiasm and adaptability make them ideal catalysts for innovation. The Forward Sprint provides a platform for them to hone their skills, gain exposure to real-world challenges, and contribute meaningfully to the organisation's future.

Unleashing creativity

To foster a truly innovative environment, it is essential to create a space where individuals feel empowered to think creatively. The Forward Sprint achieves this by establishing a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Team-building activities, open and clear communication, as well as a focus on experimentation encourages participants to explore unconventional ideas without fear of failure.

Furthermore, the program emphasises the importance of play and fun. By incorporating games and challenges into the process, participants are able to relax, build trust, and approach problem-solving with a fresh perspective. This light-hearted approach can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and fosters a culture of experimentation.

Balancing structure and freedom

While creativity thrives on freedom, organisations also require structure and processes to function efficiently. The key lies in finding the right balance. The Forward Sprint addresses this by establishing a flexible innovation framework. This framework provides a roadmap for teams to follow while allowing ample room for experimentation and adaptation.

By combining structured workshops, design research methods, and group facilitation, we remove barriers to imagination, collaboration and ultimately, innovation. The use of digital tools facilitates long-term collaboration and capacity building, while in-person gatherings foster deeper connections and a sense of camaraderie.

Cultivating a risk-taking culture

Innovation often involves taking calculated risks. The Forward Sprint encourages this mindset by reframing ‘failure’ as a learning opportunity. Participants are empowered to experiment in an environment where there are no mistakes – every idea is valuable, and it is up to the participants to decide what they feel is most important to prioritise and drives the most value to their project. A supportive environment where ideas are met with open-mindedness is essential for fostering a culture of risk-taking. With a team behind them and supporting them, people are more likely to take risks that can lead to innovation.

By providing a safe space for experimentation, the Forward Sprint helps individuals develop the confidence to challenge the status quo and pursue unconventional approaches. This ultimately leads to the development of more innovative and impactful solutions.

The future of innovation

The Forward Sprint is a powerful example of how organisations can invest in their future by empowering young talent. By fostering collaboration, creativity, and a risk-taking culture, this program equips early-career professionals with the skills and mindset needed to drive innovation. As the business landscape continues to evolve at an accelerated pace, initiatives like the Forward Sprint are essential for organisations seeking to remain competitive.

For more insights from RSM’s thought leaders, visit the RSM Global Blog.

Authored by Gregor Schmidt - Regional Leader, Europe.