“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”

-Steve Jobs

Chances are you own an Apple product…your iPhone, the kid’s iTouch, your spouse’s iPad, and the three iTunes gift cards that have been lying on the kitchen counter since the Holidays. So how did Steve Jobs and his team do it? First, Steve Jobs waits for no one to come up with the next big idea. If he did, he would be a follower. And why would he want that?  The good news is that Steve Jobs has nothing on you (other than a few billion dollars). You have been given the same ability to think creatively. You just need to do it…on a regular basis.  To think like Steve, here is your job (sorry I couldn’t resist).

Take 20 minutes in your office this week and think, “If Steve Jobs had my sales territory, what would he do unlike every other salesperson to steal customers from the competition or to sell more to current customers?” By doing so, you will come up with some “crazy” stuff. But in that innovative thinking will come ideas that will separate you from the rest of your peers and industry.  And when you hear the voice in your head saying, “Don’t do it,” STOP, then ask yourself whether you want to be a leader or a follower.

This week, Brian interviewed Josh Linkner, author of the book, Disciplined Dreaming on his weekly radio show. To get some great tips on using creativity and innovation to become the leader in your industry, go to www.preciseselling.com/on-radio.