Are you struggling to get your new initiatives off the ground? Do you wish your organization was more nimble and entrepreneurial? Do you yearn to build a team of people who don't need a rule-book ... people who can handle ambiguity? Do you daydream about having a team of fearless innovators who bring you great ideas, and then leap into action to make their ideas a reality?

OK, fine, it's good to have goals. But if you don't work in that kind of environment right now, are you sure you know what innovation really looks like ... up close and personal? When you interview an innovator, just what exactly should you look for? And after you hire them, will your office be like the set of Mad Men?  

Read what years of research teaches us about the reality of innovation. 

Researchers surveyed thousands of members of the corporate elite. They asked CEOs, top executives, and board members at some of the world's largest companies how they ingratiate themselves with others without creating suspicion of their motives. 

Seven consistent strategies showed up. But once you learn them, you must always remember to use this power for good, not evil.   

If you're incorporating new ideas into your organization, you (and your staff) may struggle with confidence, particularly if projects don't smoothly turn into successes right away. Here are five research-backed confidence boosters so you don't give up before you turn the corner on the way to success. More ...