Following a straightforward work schedule can be a no-hassle convenience, but having too much structure can easily become stifling. Some tasks just don’t leave a lot of room for injecting creative flair, like writing a report or punching in numbers. Fortunately, no matter what your job description entails, there are ways to spark some life into any routine.
Just like how there can be many approaches to problem solving, a productive workflow doesn’t have to be repetitive. If you’re yearning to innovate, you just need to look beyond your comfort zone. Here are some ways a creative spin can be implemented to any type of job.
Update your craft
If you’re looking to be more inventive, start at your work station. Examine your current tools such as task management software or planner and see if you’re making the most out of them. Are there any other tricks you should learn, or new ways to use them outside of your usual tasks? Simple re-organization can go a long way.
And if you’re finding yourself using the same skills repeatedly, why not try out a more advanced skill you already have a leg up on? If you’re great at crunching numbers and data, you could take up a beginning computer science course. Use new skills as a springboard for your next project. You’re exploring new options for yourself within an area you’re already familiar with, and broadening your expertise at the same time.
Switch up your team’s routine
Groups are prone to sluggish periods in the workflow as everyone finds themselves waiting on everyone else. See if you can find a way to increase efficiency in one area. Get everyone to pitch in for a collaborative effort in offering creative solutions. If you’re a supervisor or manager, you can come up with small incentives or friendly competition between coworkers or departments to see who can come up with the best solution. Practicing creative problem solving consistently keeps everyone engaged with one another and aware of what’s going on.
Add some character to your charts
Speaking of presenting data, remember that it doesn’t need to be dull! Take advantage of simple yet interesting visuals to grab your viewer’s attention. Since you’re going to be showing your reports to an audience, communicate your findings and ideas in a way that makes sense to you and your peers. You’re not confined to incomprehensible jargon, so why settle with it? The use of symbols, color codes, and diagrams make them lively, approachable, and easy to digest for everyone.
Employing colorful language is another helpful sensory aid. Metaphors or imagery during meetings or pitches adds dimension that connects with listeners, especially if you’re discussing material that’s hard to understand.
Host a company workshop
Do you have a skill that others might need brushing up on? Even a skill that doesn’t feel that relevant to your workplace? Offer to teach a workshop! Open it to a small group or the entire company—people love to learn, and you’d be surprised at how much latitude you have with the subject matter.
The only real requirement is to have strong knowledge in a given skill or subject. There are always people around the office who could learn something new or refresh their skills. It’s also an excellent way to get acquainted with coworkers you rarely see.
Unlike a regular meeting, you’re the one in total control. Planning a workshop gets you to strategize inventive ways of presenting and educating. It challenges you to think on your feet in a stable, low-risk setting while boosting your confidence. Besides, what better way to practice public speaking skills than speaking to a crowd about something you know a thing or two about?
Check out some of our art and technology courses below:
Doodle Magic | Basic and Advanced Techniques
Kadenze Academy
Cinematic Storytelling
California College of the Arts