In previous blogs, we’ve discussed the changing nature of the business world. However, in this environment, you cannot rely only on what has worked in the past, or what has served you when the greater climate was explicitly pro-growth. This, then, is the time to embrace creativity.
A creative mindset needs to come from the top.
A Manager needs to show a willingness to try new things, break boundaries, and defy expectations. To do the opposite is to stymy employees, and to show them that new ideas are unwelcome. This can cause significant attrition and frustration. Allow your employees to try new ways to achieve their goals, and in turn, the company’s goals.
Cultivating a creative climate broadcasts a message; that no ideas are off the table, and indeed, that ideas are very much welcome. This helps build trust at all levels and empowers employees in feeling crucial to the day-to-day growth of the business. This is an approach that rewards everyone.
Collaboration is the key to creativity
Rarely is creativity born from a singular point. Instead, it is contributed to from multiple people in a process of continued refinement. A small spark is nurtured bit by bit, idea by idea, into an inferno. Your role, as a business leader, is to stoke the flames. Push for innovation, allow for space and a freedom to explore new ways of doing things. Stagnation is a greater risk than trying something that hasn’t been done before. As they say, the only way to fail is to not try in the first place.
Recognise the Skillset of your Workforce
Chances are, you understand that the people you manage are better at doing certain things than you are. Their experiences and skillset compliment yours, creating a well-rounded toolset to tackle issues. Use those tools. Use every tool at your disposal to see problems as opportunities for development and improvement. Trust your team to know their abilities and limitations, and how best to navigate the difficult road ahead. Collaboration is the key to success.
Your Role as a Leader is to Steer the Boat
Set the destination. Set the beat and let your team flourish. Embrace new ideas and allow them to cultivate. Employee happiness and satisfaction will increase, and challenges will be overcome. 2025 is the year you level up your leadership through dynamism and adaptability. Run at every difficulty and let each offer a lesson in how best to manage it in the future. Every challenge is an opportunity to improve. Make 2025 your year for success!!
Be sure to check out Matt’s upcoming events to help you tackle the year ahead. For more information, and to stay up to date, be sure to follow Matt on LinkedIn.
