How I Got My First Job in Innovation

When people ask how to land their first job in innovation, my story always surprises them. It wasn’t about finding the perfect job posting or waiting for an opportunity to knock. Instead, I created my opportunity. In 1992, I worked for a small company in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, when Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) acquired it. The transition opened a unique door for me to carve out a role that set the foundation for my career in innovation.

Creating My Opportunity

I was the Director of Data Center Operations at the time. While I found the role fulfilling, I discovered my true passion for exploring creative and strategic ways to drive organizational success—an area CSC had not formally defined. I decided to take matters into my own hands. Instead of waiting for a new role to materialize, I wrote my job description.

Key Steps I Took:

1. Identify the Role You Want
   Before jumping into action, I envisioned a role that aligned with my passion and would bring value to the company. For me, that position focused on driving innovation within the organization.
2. Write Your Job Description
   I crafted a detailed proposal outlining what the job would entail and why it was critical for the organization. Importantly, I avoided negativity or scare tactics, like claiming the company would fail without it. Instead, I focused on strategic storytelling—painting a picture of the brighter future this role could help create.
3. Pitch the Idea
   Armed with my proposal, I approached the VP of the division. To my surprise, they were intrigued and open to the idea. After refining the proposal through several conversations, they officially created the position. Within 60 days, I transitioned into my first job in innovation.

The Power of Strategic Storytelling

Convincing leadership to create a new role wasn’t just about presenting facts. It was about selling a vision. I focused on:

• Showing how this role could benefit the organization in the long term.
• Demonstrating my unique qualifications and passion for the position.
• Framing the proposal in a way that aligned with the company’s strategic goals.

This approach helped me gain buy-in and set the tone for a career built on creative problem-solving and innovation.

Lessons for Aspiring Innovators

Here’s what my experience taught me:

• Don’t Wait for the Perfect Opportunity
  Sometimes, the best opportunities are the ones you create. Take the initiative if you see a gap or a chance to add value.
• Be Bold but Positive
  Pitching a new idea can feel risky, but remaining confident and constructive is crucial. Leaders want solutions, not complaints.
• Prove Your Value
  Once you secure the role, it’s on you to deliver. Hard work and results will validate the trust your leaders placed in you.

Why Your First Job in Innovation Matters

Your first job in innovation is more than a career milestone; it’s a chance to set the stage for future opportunities. For me, stepping into this role unlocked doors I never knew existed and paved the way for decades of exciting challenges and successes. If you’re passionate about innovation, don’t be afraid to take risks, tell your story, and create the path that aligns with your vision.

Innovation doesn’t wait—why should you?

To learn about my first job in innovation, listen to this week's show: How I Got My First Job in Innovation.