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How do you use creativity in your job, even if your role isn’t traditionally considered “creative” ?
How do you use creativity in your job, even if your role isn’t traditionally considered “creative”?
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2 answers
Priyanka K
Software Engineer
29
Answers
Little Elm, Texas
Updated
Priyanka’s Answer
Using creativity in a job not traditionally considered "creative" is all about finding innovative ways to solve problems, improve processes, and add value to your work. Here are actionable and engaging ways to incorporate creativity into your role:
1. Problem Solving
Creativity is essential for approaching challenges with fresh perspectives:
Example: If you work in finance and notice inefficiencies in reporting, brainstorm ways to automate repetitive tasks or visualize data more effectively using tools like Excel macros or Power BI.
Actionable Tip: Adopt a “What if?” mindset. For every problem, ask unconventional questions like, “What if we eliminated this step entirely?” or “What if we approached this from the customer’s perspective?”
2. Process Improvements
Even routine roles can benefit from creative tweaks:
Example: In administrative roles, creatively organize workflows with color-coded systems or digital tools (e.g., Trello, Notion) to streamline task management.
Actionable Tip: Experiment with productivity methodologies like the Eisenhower Matrix or Kanban boards to find the best fit for your team or department.
3. Communication
Creativity can elevate how you present information and connect with others:
Example: Instead of sending dry emails, design engaging presentations, infographics, or videos to share updates or ideas.
Actionable Tip: Use free tools like Canva or Prezi to craft visually appealing content that grabs attention.
4. Customer/Client Interaction
Creativity can redefine how you engage with customers or clients:
Example: Develop personalized experiences or solutions by thinking outside of the box. If you're in customer service, create a follow-up system that surprises clients with thoughtful gestures, like a tailored thank-you note.
Actionable Tip: Build empathy maps to better understand your audience's needs and brainstorm ways to exceed expectations.
5. Streamlining Mundane Tasks
Turn repetitive tasks into opportunities for creativity:
Example: If you’re in data entry, explore using scripts or formulas to automate tasks, saving time and reducing errors.
Actionable Tip: Learn basic coding or automation tools like Zapier or Python to bring efficiency and flair to your work.
6. Collaboration
Creativity shines in teamwork:
Example: Propose brainstorming sessions with coworkers to exchange ideas, even for tasks that seem straightforward. The diversity of thought can lead to breakthroughs.
Actionable Tip: Use creative facilitation techniques like Mind Mapping or Reverse Brainstorming to uncover hidden opportunities.
7. Learning and Growth
Leverage curiosity as a form of creativity:
Example: If your job involves routine tasks, explore ways to upskill or cross-train in areas that complement your role. For instance, learning graphic design could help improve presentations or marketing materials.
Actionable Tip: Set aside time to discover new tools, trends, or techniques in your industry. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Skillshare are great starting points.
8. Data Visualization
Creatively interpreting data can make even technical roles dynamic:
Example: Turn complex data into accessible visuals for stakeholders using tools like Tableau or Google Data Studio.
Actionable Tip: Think of storytelling with data. Ask yourself, “What story does this data tell?” and design charts or graphs that make insights compelling.
9. Building Relationships
Creativity can transform how you build trust and rapport:
Example: Organize fun team-building activities or propose unconventional ways to celebrate milestones, like themed virtual meetings or collaborative playlists.
Actionable Tip: Innovate in your approach to feedback—consider creating a “feedback wall” where coworkers can anonymously share ideas and suggestions.
10. Personal Branding
Make your role memorable by adding your own creative touch:
Example: Develop a signature way of doing things—whether it’s creating visually appealing documents, using humor in communications, or offering unique solutions.
Actionable Tip: Identify one area where you can consistently stand out, such as creating templates, suggesting ideas, or being the go-to person for brainstorming sessions.
Final Thought
Creativity doesn’t have to be reserved for traditionally artistic roles. It’s about thinking differently, experimenting, and adding value wherever possible. By embracing creativity, you can transform any job into an opportunity for innovation and personal growth. Even the smallest creative contributions can make a big impact!
1. Problem Solving
Creativity is essential for approaching challenges with fresh perspectives:
Example: If you work in finance and notice inefficiencies in reporting, brainstorm ways to automate repetitive tasks or visualize data more effectively using tools like Excel macros or Power BI.
Actionable Tip: Adopt a “What if?” mindset. For every problem, ask unconventional questions like, “What if we eliminated this step entirely?” or “What if we approached this from the customer’s perspective?”
2. Process Improvements
Even routine roles can benefit from creative tweaks:
Example: In administrative roles, creatively organize workflows with color-coded systems or digital tools (e.g., Trello, Notion) to streamline task management.
Actionable Tip: Experiment with productivity methodologies like the Eisenhower Matrix or Kanban boards to find the best fit for your team or department.
3. Communication
Creativity can elevate how you present information and connect with others:
Example: Instead of sending dry emails, design engaging presentations, infographics, or videos to share updates or ideas.
Actionable Tip: Use free tools like Canva or Prezi to craft visually appealing content that grabs attention.
4. Customer/Client Interaction
Creativity can redefine how you engage with customers or clients:
Example: Develop personalized experiences or solutions by thinking outside of the box. If you're in customer service, create a follow-up system that surprises clients with thoughtful gestures, like a tailored thank-you note.
Actionable Tip: Build empathy maps to better understand your audience's needs and brainstorm ways to exceed expectations.
5. Streamlining Mundane Tasks
Turn repetitive tasks into opportunities for creativity:
Example: If you’re in data entry, explore using scripts or formulas to automate tasks, saving time and reducing errors.
Actionable Tip: Learn basic coding or automation tools like Zapier or Python to bring efficiency and flair to your work.
6. Collaboration
Creativity shines in teamwork:
Example: Propose brainstorming sessions with coworkers to exchange ideas, even for tasks that seem straightforward. The diversity of thought can lead to breakthroughs.
Actionable Tip: Use creative facilitation techniques like Mind Mapping or Reverse Brainstorming to uncover hidden opportunities.
7. Learning and Growth
Leverage curiosity as a form of creativity:
Example: If your job involves routine tasks, explore ways to upskill or cross-train in areas that complement your role. For instance, learning graphic design could help improve presentations or marketing materials.
Actionable Tip: Set aside time to discover new tools, trends, or techniques in your industry. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Skillshare are great starting points.
8. Data Visualization
Creatively interpreting data can make even technical roles dynamic:
Example: Turn complex data into accessible visuals for stakeholders using tools like Tableau or Google Data Studio.
Actionable Tip: Think of storytelling with data. Ask yourself, “What story does this data tell?” and design charts or graphs that make insights compelling.
9. Building Relationships
Creativity can transform how you build trust and rapport:
Example: Organize fun team-building activities or propose unconventional ways to celebrate milestones, like themed virtual meetings or collaborative playlists.
Actionable Tip: Innovate in your approach to feedback—consider creating a “feedback wall” where coworkers can anonymously share ideas and suggestions.
10. Personal Branding
Make your role memorable by adding your own creative touch:
Example: Develop a signature way of doing things—whether it’s creating visually appealing documents, using humor in communications, or offering unique solutions.
Actionable Tip: Identify one area where you can consistently stand out, such as creating templates, suggesting ideas, or being the go-to person for brainstorming sessions.
Final Thought
Creativity doesn’t have to be reserved for traditionally artistic roles. It’s about thinking differently, experimenting, and adding value wherever possible. By embracing creativity, you can transform any job into an opportunity for innovation and personal growth. Even the smallest creative contributions can make a big impact!
Amy Elias
Creative Services Manager
3
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Great question! Many people think 'creative' means being artistic (painting, designing), but in my role, creativity is actually just problem-solving in disguise.
I use creativity by asking 'Why do we do it this way?' instead of just following the routine. For example, if a process is slow and boring, I get creative by building a new automation tool or designing a better workflow to fix it. Creativity isn't always about making things 'pretty' - sometimes it’s about making things smart.
I use creativity by asking 'Why do we do it this way?' instead of just following the routine. For example, if a process is slow and boring, I get creative by building a new automation tool or designing a better workflow to fix it. Creativity isn't always about making things 'pretty' - sometimes it’s about making things smart.