Creativity is a drug I cannot live without.
- Cecil B. DeMille
Have you ever been at work and thought, Hmm, if only we could change this, then we would be so much more productive? It’s likely you’ve thought of at least one creative solution during your years of employment.
In this tough economic climate, it doesn’t seem like creativity is a valuable trait in employees. But, actually, when entire teams are being condensed into one or two people, companies are looking for more creative solutions than ever.
Why it’s A-OK
It might not seem like it, but creativity is a valuable trait that almost every employer wants to see in an employee. An employee that thinks outside of the box shows the employer that they are invested in their work, looking out for the company, and haven’t turned into a brainless robot.
For the employee, using your creative muscles allows you to prevent the dreaded workplace boredom that can happen. When you just let the day-to-day eat you up, you lose that interest you need in your job.
How to use it
Okay, great. Creativity is a valuable resource in the workplace. How can an employee use it?
Make time to think. If you have an idea that can help you, your co-workers, or the company, write it down and think about it. If you have a busy job, you might not be able to just spend however long you need to think of a great idea. When an idea strikes you, jot down your thoughts so that you can think about it later.
Discuss. You might think you have a good idea, but make a point of running it by your co-workers, supervisor, or whoever else might be affected. They might agree with you, but also could have something to add onto it to make it even better.
Find someone who will listen. The #1 reason why people stifle their creative ideas at work is the feeling that no one is going to listen. It happens. In some workplaces, there is no room for creativity. Figure out who is willing to listen to you and is able to make a difference. It could be your immediate supervisor or it could be the top executive.
What do you think? Do you feel that there is room for creativity in the workplace? Have you ever shared an idea? Was it successful? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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