Innovation is not new. What is new is the accelerated pace of change, making innovation critical for business success. Innovation generates 2 trillion hits in a web search, which highlights its importance, but may also suggest the word has become overused. Clearly, innovation means many things to different people, but it does not mean everything. This has created some unique challenges for those of us pursuing careers in innovation. But there is hope. 

Innovation is now increasingly being recognized as a unique business discipline that drives value, impact and growth. As innovation professionals, we have an opportunity to design careers by understanding innovation objectives, accountability, culture and innovator archetypes, as well as what inspires you. By designing our careers and clarifying innovation for our organizations and peers, we make a world of difference.