10 Steps Management Can Take to Increase Both Productivity and Creativity in Employees

For many employees creativity and productivity go hand in hand. And increase in one leads to an increase in the other, so anything that managers can do to facilitate creativity or productivity for their staff will lead to a benefit in both areas. In some cases, tactics for increasing either behaviour can rely on the specific employee, but here are some tips for helping employees achieve success in both areas: Reward Creativity. It sounds simple enough, but it is often overlooked. The simple task of rewarding the behaviour that is desired goes a long way towards promoting the level of creativity among all workers.

1. Create a Positive Environment. Make sure that the office space is free of distractions and this will enable employees to be productive.
2. Hold Brainstorming Sessions. As the saying goes, “two minds are better than one”. Schedule regular brainstorming meetings and make sure that one of the topics covered is ways to get those creative juices flowing. Involving employees in the different aspects of idea development will result in a better flow of ideas and lead to empowered employees.
3. Suggestion Box. In some cases, employees have a need to be able to anonymously suggest ideas. Having a suggestion box will solve that need and allow individuals to express their creativity ideas. Listen to what employees have to say, in many cases they know what will help them succeed.
4. Utilize Technology. Technology, such as applications and computer programs can help complete task efficiently. Embracing technology and allowing employees’ access to the latest and best advances and tools will help them be more productive.
5. Empower Management. Setting goals for management to promote and increase creativity is an important step in making sure that everyone in your company is aware of the same goals and executing plans to implement them. Make it part of the corporate culture along with positivity and communication. Avoid micromanaging.
6. Brain Training Games. Depending on your corporate culture and what types of meetings you hold, brain training games are a fun way to incorporate increasing creativity and other learning activities into your meetings or corporate events.
7. Break up the Monotony. Believe it or not, the best way to often finish a task in a productive time frame is to take short breaks. Relaxing the mind often allows you to re-focus your energy and thoughts and incorporate new ideas to complete the project or task at hand.
8. Set Productivity Goals. Setting goals and allowing for rewards when goals are met are one of the main driving factors for productivity. Many employees will do better with an end in sight as long as the target is realistic. Maintain focus on the main task, extra work that does not achieve your goal is a waste of time.
9. Reward Creativity. It sounds simple enough, but it is often overlooked. The simple task of rewarding the behavior that is desired goes a long way towards promoting the level of creativity among all workers.
10. Provide the best training and re-train often. Keeping employees at the top of their game with the latest skills will go a long way towards a productive and creative workforce.