Being creative

Innovation and creativity can be key elements in a successful workplace.

Often what we need to learn is how and when to apply our creative nature and abilities. In business, we must have focussed creativity which has time boundaries and parameters, otherwise an open program of creativity may well result in nothing except interesting thoughts. Whilst that may be mentally stimulating, it rarely pays the rent.

Understanding and applying the processes of creativity is not difficult. We can learn techniques which help us to be more creative, innovative and productive and from this process comes effective thinking.

Despite these restrictions, all staff can be creative. You do not need a Ph.D. in creativity to be creative. In addition, you do not need to attend seminars on how to be creative.

Creativity does not depend on how old you are, your level of experience/education, or the type of work you do. You can be a creative auto mechanic as well as a creative sales person.

You do not need to think big when it comes to creativity. A small idea can be very valuable and cost effective when it is measured over time.

Many creative people would say that the only difference between creative people and those who believe they lack such ability may be that the former see themselves as innovators.

So, how do you ensure that you have a creative workplace? These five tips can help:

• Hire for creativity - make it a mandatory qualification for every position;
• Offer staff training in creativity and problem-solving;
• Encourage diverse training programs & opportunities for staff to broaden their perspectives;
• Put creativity in staff goals - have an idea quota for employees or departments; and
• Hold contests for new ideas.

Many opportunities and rewards are lost because creativity in the workplace is absent. Instead of having a productive and stimulating environment, there are many situations where workers are faced with boredom as a result of relentless routine.

Of course, eventually boredom translates into absenteeism and low morale. Where such an environment exists, it should be the job of the manager to reverse this phenomenon and to create a positive and invigorating atmosphere.

Generally, most workers get fulfilment from participating fully in their jobs. They need to be completely present in order to achieve satisfaction. This means workers need to have the freedom to be the best they can be.

All the tools a worker needs to deliver a quality product must be made available. This is where creativity comes in. As human beings, we are creative beings. It is a fundamental quality we have and it is also necessary in the workplace.

Creativity can be linked to higher productivity and a more positive workplace. It is a well that never dries up.

There are three fundamentals to creativity making a positive contribution in the workplace:

1. You need to make a commitment to creativity.

Consciously choose to increase your attention and energy on finding ways to be creative. Look for ways to add interest to everyday events. Let everybody in your business know creativity is the norm, it is expected and rewarded.

2. You need to believe that there are many solutions to any challenge.

Always aim to be as open as possible to new ideas. Everything from how you organise your office to how quickly you respond to enquiries can benefit from added flair brought on by a decision to look for a different solution to an ongoing challenge.

3. In every process, make room for creativity.

If you keep on doing something the way you have been, you will keep on getting the same result. Challenge yourself regularly to be creative, perhaps in ways that are unexpected even to you.