subject: Encourage Workplace Creativity [print this page] There are two states in the United States - New Jersey and Oregon - in which it is illegal for a driver to pump their own gas. Instead, there is an attendant that must do it for you. There is really no creativity required for this job; there isn't a new or better or more efficient way for an attendant to pump gas. And there are a handful of other jobs that require little to no creativity - flip a switch, push a button, follow the rules, etc.
But many jobs depend on creative, innovative, and forward-thinking individuals in order to keep the company moving forward. Otherwise, the business plateaus, stagnates, and becomes complacent with the status quo. That's what it's so important to develop and encourage a culture of creativity.
*Seek input from unconventional sources. Just because one department usually handles a specific issue, it doesn't mean a different department may have a valuable insight. Of course, you don't have to seek everyone's advice on every issue; but if there's something that's especially pressing or difficult to resolve, it may be time to open up to other options.
*Limit the complexity of your Standard Operating Procedures. There is a place for rules and regulations and "the way to do things." However, too many of those SOPs squelch employee creativity and encourage them to never vary from protocol.
*Never be satisfied with the first (or even second) solution. While the first solution may end up being the best, your ability to keep brainstorming and developing new ideas could develop into something useful.
*Reward those individuals who encourage creativity instead of those who do the same thing day in and day out. Use those individuals as examples of what others can also do promote creativity.
*Encourage people to ask questions and even (respectfully) question authority. Don't be in the habit of discouragement and disappointment. Respectfully listen to opposing viewpoints and take them into consideration.
*Participate in activities - seminars, conferences, books, games, etc. - designed for the specific purpose of encouraging creativity. Research your different options; have everyone participate or have a few people participate who can then share what they learned with everyone else.
Hopefully, those in charge will help promote these ideas and encourage this culture. But even if they don't, you can make a personal commitment to implement these strategies within your own realm of influence.
