Creativity is the first victim of a downturn. When cuts are being made the creative impulse is likely to dry up, along with enthusiasm, boldness, and risk-taking. But paradoxically, the hard times are when we need our creativity most.<p>
In this new paper Alex McKie returns to the much-debated concept of creativity, not to offer yet another attempted definition of the word, but rather to look at the practical implications of trying to unleash "creativity" at work.<p>
McKie identifies the "creative conversation" as the route to greater involvement of people, higher productivity, and a healthier working environment. It is as simple, and as challenging, as this: we have to relearn the way we relate to each other in the workplace if we are to get close to essence of genuine creativity.<p>
Creativity is too important to be left to "creatives". This paper is aimed at provoking further debate in businesses and organisations, and at encouraging people at work to take the initiative in promoting a more creative workplace.