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Bring Creativity to Your Firm

Brandy Jordan
Posted by Brandy Jordan on Jan 29, 2025 1:43:11 PM

Many view creativity as something focused on the production of artistic work. But creativity goes far beyond that short-sighted scope. 

Creativity is the ability to bring something new into existence, whether a new solution, a new product, a new way of doing things, or a new artistic expression. That makes creativity a critical skill set that firms should foster and encourage. 

Creativity will keep your firm moving forward with fresh ideas and innovation. This is more than just thinking about what new services you could offer; it includes reimagining workflows, streamlining efficiency and challenging outdated processes.

It is easy to get bogged down in daily tasks and routines that we fall into the mindset that creativity is a luxury rather than a necessity. Without creativity, we stagnate. It is the secret weapon that helps firms stay agile and relevant in a rapidly changing industry.  

So how do we put some imagination and creativity into our work? 

Understand that every aspect of your job can be done differently and better 

Think of innovation as a series of upgrades. One example used to illustrate this is providing music to fans.

At one point, it was only done through live performances; then we had vinyl, then eight tracks, then cassettes, then CDs. Now we can listen to music downloads or on-demand services on our devices.

This is the same with business processes; each improvement builds upon the last. Question the status quo and ask, “How could this be done better?” Approach tasks with curiosity and a willingness to experiment.  

Go for a walk  

Yep, you read that right. According to a Kaplan theory study, nature can enhance creative ways of thinking. The theory suggests that natural environments help recharge the directed attention required when analyzing and developing ideas.

Outside, the environment captures your involuntary attention, allowing your directed attention to “rest.”

Another study suggests walking, even indoors, promotes divergent thinking, which is the key to creativity. Next time you are stuck, take a lap outside or around the office.  

Broaden your knowledge 

Every idea you have is a combination of concepts you already know. That is why the more knowledge you have, the greater the potential to generate unique ideas. This means making time for exploration.

You can read books, watch documentaries, keep up with the news, take new classes, start new hobbies and socialize with different types of people, all as ways of gaining new knowledge. Your curiosity is the fuel for innovation.  

Take risks

Being creative in our work also means taking risks, and we know how much this industry loves to take risks. Fear of the unknown is powerful, especially when you might fail.

The truth is, fear and creativity are two sides of the same coin. The more comfortable we become with uncertainty, the more willing we are to explore bold, innovative ideas. 

The challenge, however, is embracing this uncertainty, partly (largely?) because the longer we have been doing a job, the greater the tendency to keep doing things “the way we have always done it.” This keeps us in a rut. Creativity helps break this cycle. When we start to apply imagination in our everyday work life, we will stop the drudgery and be able to unlock more meaningful results.

Creativity is not reserved for leadership or specific roles; it is for everyone. When your team feels empowered to contribute ideas, they become emotionally invested in their work and less afraid of failure. 

Build prototypes 

You have a fantastic idea? Test it! Show people how an idea would work with a mock-up or a prototype, which takes your concept from abstract to tangible. Ask for their input and ideas because creativity does not stop at the idea phase. It thrives when ideas are shared, tested and improved.  

Change your attitude toward failure 

Fail and learn—It is a mindset shift that unlocks creativity. If everything you try works, then you are probably playing it too safe.

Failure is not the opposite of success, it is part of the journey. Innovation involves trying some things that do not work. Treat each failure as a learning opportunity and remind yourself of the innovator’s motto: “I succeed, or I learn, but I never fail.” 

I challenge you to foster a culture of creativity within your firm by setting the example. Start small and choose one of these strategies we have discussed and start doing it. See what happens. You might be surprised by what you and your team can achieve. 

Topics: Operational Advisory


 

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