Are You Managing A Creative Team?
Managers know that people come with various ways of processing, interests and communication skills. All employees are potentially “creative” though there is a set of employees whose main role is to create either technology, art, or graphics and they are separate from the general operational departments.
There are some givens that seem to be universal when managing “creatives.” I found this post by Ryan M. Walsh, Photographer “Common Mistakes in Managing (Creative) People.” Even though he is not a manager or a leader in a company, he is able to garner a lot of wisdom around managing creatives. By the way, his perceptions works well for all employees.
…I have observed a number of trends with managers that are unfamiliar with creative minds. Different thought process, different motivators, personal independence, balancing work objectives and productivity with time and space for creativity…it can be a challenge!
He provides a thorough list of differences between “bosses and leaders.” When working with creatives, you need a leadership style. This style is necessary for any type of employee you manage, yet the way you communicate to a creative will impact their creative juices and the results are either great or average. Which would you prefer?
A leader understands that you need an employee’s buy in to get their best. You can demand performance but you will never get the quality you want. Creatives clearly let you know when you are being a boss or a leader by their performance. A leader provides challenges along with respect and the necessary guidance for each individual to succeed.
If you want creative employees, communicate to them as a leader.
Be well,
Pat
