Are you a manager or HR division leader in the office? If so, it might be a good idea to start learning how to develop creative thinking concepts.
There are many businesses that go bankrupt because they are outmatched by competitors, miss out on implementing effective marketing strategies, and many other factors.
In times of critical conditions, leaders who are unable to think creatively tend to only see one solution in one direction (linear). The limited options caused by rigid thinking make it difficult for some companies to grow.
For those of you who are managers, it is important to know what creative thinking is and how to train it.
No need to worry, we will explain the fundamental parts that can be the foundation before you can master the creative thinking patterns. Let’s see the explanation below.
What is Creative Thinking Skills?
Creative thinking is the ability to analyze something based on data or information, so as to generate new ideas in solving a condition or problem. The short term to describe this is thinking “Out of the Box” with a different perspective, broader and not fixated on just one solution.
Now let’s use an example. You are a company manager who is facing a decline in sales. Normally, you might be focused to make a linear decision by cutting production costs.
However, managers who are able to think creatively may explore the use of alternative products, tap into new target audiences, or even reinvent the branding identity.
So, we understand that creative thinking can have a huge impact on business sustainability. Aren’t you interested in learning about it?
Three Components of Creativity
There are at least three components in creativity: expertise, motivation, and creative thinking skills. Each of these parts has its own role in supporting the creation of individual creativity.
- Expertise, is in word, knowledge, technical, procedural, and intellectual
- Motivation, not all motivation created equal. An innerpassion to solve the problem at hand leads to solutions far more creative than do external rewards, such as money
- Creative Thinking Skills, creative thinking skills determine how flexible and imaginatively people approach problems
Among the three sections above, which one do you think you have mastered or at least excelled in? Creative thinking is not just about trying something new.
However, we have a basis or foundation for doing so. For example, when making a decision for a more creative step, we should already understand the field and master the technical knowledge and intellectual components of it.
Then, to ensure that what we plan to do remains consistent and committed, we need strong motivation to do it.
Learn more about how to developing leadership skills (creative thinking included).
How to Learn Creative Thinking Skills, Get Started from Here
Practicing creative thinking skills is not easy. Don’t expect to master it overnight. You need several months or even years to strengthen this ability so that it can be applied in real business management.
However, a long journey is better to start from the smallest step than nothing at all. Here are some tips you can follow to cultivate creative thinking skills for HR managers or business owners.
Embrace Curiosity and Open-Mindedness
Question everything: Challenge assumptions and seek alternative perspectives. Instead of accepting things at face value, ask “Why?” and “What if?” This will help you break free from conventional thinking and explore new possibilities.
Be open to failure: Understand that failure is a natural part of the creative process. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or try ideas that don’t work out. Instead, view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.
Practice Active Observation
Pay attention to details: Notice the world around you and look for patterns or connections. Observe everything from the way people interact to the design of objects. This will help you develop a keen eye for detail and identify potential areas for innovation.
Observe without judgment: Avoid making assumptions and simply observe what you see. Try to see things from different perspectives and avoid labeling or categorizing them. This will help you approach problems with an open mind and discover unexpected solutions.
Practice Creative Exercises
Brainstorming: Generate a large number of ideas without judgment. Set a timer for a specific amount of time and write down as many ideas as you can. Don’t worry about whether the ideas are good or bad, just focus on quantity.
Mind mapping: Visually organize your thoughts and connections. Create a diagram with a central topic and branch out from it to connect related ideas. This can help you see the big picture and identify potential relationships between different concepts.
That’s all we can say about developing creative thinking skills for manager and others. Want to learn more about this topic? Download our template materials available in hr-management-slides.com!