3 Reasons to Boost Creativity

The advancement of technology and the resulting change to culture has shifted the landscape and what is expected in the workplace. So why maximise creativity when the goal posts keep moving? Studies such as the 2010 IBM survey of over 1500 business leaders across 60 countries and 33 industries, showed that CEO’s felt more than rigour, management discipline, integrity or even vision – that creativity was needed to successfully navigate an increasingly complex world.

• 24/7

Roles have changed. Expectations have changed. In days gone by with marketing materials and other such documents being in print, a flurry of activity to meet campaign and business deadlines saw a surge in creativity and then the calm before the wheels went into motion to maximise sales and customer service. With advancements in technology and with easy access to any amount of information at the click of a button, we are all caught up in the 24/7 culture. Creativity is now demanded in a constant stream in order to stay ahead of the competition. If you aren’t on top of your game, someone else will be. But creativity can’t be demanded – it needs the right environment to flourish.

• Create space and respect differences

In all organisations there is a need for different skills and different styles. Some are needed for quick, logical thinking and decision-making and others are needed to bring in creativity and flare. Different roles have different requirements. Creativity needs space and an environment to flourish. It often takes time and inspiration – it isn’t something that can be achieved with factual decisions or demands. Allowing time and the right environment is key. So if you see a colleague staring into space rather than typing furiously away on a laptop, it doesn’t mean they aren’t busy, they might just be at the key point in their creative process. Creativity and innovation is a key differentiator in a competitive market place, so supporting different working styles will help you get ahead. Take ‘No’ and ‘it can’t be done’ off the table and encourage employees to add to their colleagues’ ideas. Build possibilities together. Creativity can spark unique solutions to problems and lead to the development of new and exciting products and services. Not every idea will lead to success, but playing it safe will hold employees and the organisation back. Reward ideas and support the creative process.

• Have fun, dissolve stress

Execution is very different from creative flow. So rather than a simple peak of activity, the demand for continuous creativity can lead to stress and burnout. When the pressure is on, stress levels rise and communication can deteriorate into a directive, dominated shambles. Which is the exact opposite of an environment that will nurture the creative, solution focused process. Wherever possible take the tight deadlines and strict project plan off the table. Curiosity is the root of creativity, so encourage an environment of fun with lots of questions being asked. Take chances. Be ok with being wrong! It isn’t failure, it is simply a stepping-stone to the most innovative, creative solution. A culture that rewards the innovative process and also values downtime and employee wellbeing, will keep the organisation in a healthy balance and ahead of the competition. Time for a little more creativity in all walks of life perhaps. Apply for more jobs on Glassdoor here: