by Stacy Calvert
Copywriter
Are you creative? If you don’t work in what’s considered an
artistic field, you may not think so. Yet, most of us come up with resourceful
– even downright innovative -- solutions to mundane problems every day at work.
You may not realize how valuable creativity is, but a growing number of employers
place a premium on the ability to think creatively.
You don’t have to be an economist or human resources expert to
know that the workplace is changing. Corporate downsizing, globalization, technological
progress and a number of other factors have caused a major shift in our
economy. In this ever-changing landscape, people who can think on their feet
are more valuable than those who resist change and think inside the box.
As companies continue seeking ways to become leaner and more
cutting-edge, inventiveness is one skill every job-seeker should consider
honing. Taking up an artistic hobby, playing online “brain games” or even
devising your own creative thinking exercises can help you get a leg up on the
competition. If you’re willing to invest your time and money to grow your
career, some universities even offer classes, certificates, and majors or
minors in creativity. Just sitting down with a pen and pencil or their
electronic equivalent can even yield surprising ways to increase your value at
work. Brainstorm for just fifteen minutes, and you might come up with some
truly ingenious new ways of looking at your job.
The fact that colleges consider creative thinking a
teachable skill set says a lot about its role in the business world. While
experience and knowledge still carry a lot of weight, the word “creativity” is
turning up on more resumes and LinkedIn profiles than many tried-and-true
business-related buzzwords. Whether you’re looking for a job or seeking ways to
grow in your current position, becoming a more innovative thinker may be just
what you need to kick your career into high gear.
