Sundance has three key positions in each office. They are distinctly different from each other. During our time together, I suggested that the best sales ideas come from within an organization. Since the people with similar responsibilities only network with their counterparts (who work in other cities) at the annual meeting, I suggested that they spend as much time with each other as possible.

A couple of weeks later, I suggested that John and Tina consider setting up an internal newsletter where each of the three positions would have their own section. As a part of this idea-sharing tool, each person in each office would be asked to submit their best idea, all ideas would be published in the newsletter and the best idea would receive a prize. I also suggested that they use Constant Contact, the service you are encountering right now.

The first issue went out and a few ideas came in. The second issue went out announcing the prize winners and listing all of the entries. It created a flood of responses!

Is this an idea that will help you help your salespeople? What about your customer service people?

Here are some key points to remember when using this process:

• Make the newsletter regular and consistent (Sundance is twice a month, I think)
• Let employees, not leaders, choose best ideas (ask me why)
• Offer sustainable prizes - don't go overboard; the real key here is recognition
• Give the big prizes once a year: "most suggestions", "most unique suggestion", etc.
• Keep it simple - using a service like Constant Contact makes it easy and they have a free trial period

Remember, part of the best idea for the next new thing in your company is in the mind of one of your employees. The other parts are in the minds of other employees. Bring them together and you will be amazed at how the synergy creates powerful, profitable new approaches.