Hi,

So - how many years is it going to be before you get hit with the big idea?

Are the Free electrons busy?

Tell you what - if one of your close friends comes to you for a free electron suggestion make a deal with them - "If I need them back you agree to sever them from your company's employment right away."

Get it in writing if you need to. Why wouldn't a friend be ok with saying they'll do that in writing? (yes, this is simplistic and may not work out in reality. Since you don't know if the FE will ever be interested in working on your big idea, it not really that much of a gamble anyway)

There - you've kept the free electron free for your work and you've helped your friend and you've given the free electron a chance to get rich and work on something interesting.

What? Yes. I know such a contract isn't normal business practice. heh. Using unusual business practices is one of the best ways to gain a business advantage that I know of!

OK, I have nine big ideas written down right now. Are you, um busy?