Take A Ride

In a recent interview I was asked; What would you tell a non-creative that may be helpful when working with a creative? The first thing that came to mind is that I believe, in fact I know everyone is creative in their own way. The second, is that in my experience when working with creatives, if you’re coming at things from a more linear perspective, it can really throw them off.

For example, typically, if you tend to look at, and/or consider something from A-Z, creatives take a different approach. They can go from A-B, to Z, back to A, to S, and so forth (or back-forth). There’s no line. It's more like one squiggly, turning whichever way, in a swinging loop-t-loop maze. And I bet more creative thinking will result in better outcomes.

This same approach, or way of thinking would prove extremely helpful when hiring creative people. I strongly (or creatively) believe that you need to read between the lines, and in fact, under and over them too. Because remember, creative people tend not to see the lines anyway.

Look for diverse backgrounds, crazy adventures, multi-skilled individuality, and unique skills that you’d typically think should make no difference – they do. It does. 

And then when you hire them, because you’ll want to, give them the autonomy and flexibility to design what works for them - because when you do, the results can be spectacular. I’m talking about giving one the opportunity to lead with their own style. Whatever that looks like. If it’s unconventional, who cares. If you’re seeing the desired results that you want, yay. Additionally, creative people will help you to see those desired results.

The biggest mistake when working with, or hiring a creative, is assuming that they should fit within a culture that’s been, perhaps inadvertently created. I say this as, in my experience, it takes an intentional commitment and years to create healthy, happy, productive, authentic, autonomous, belonging, empathetic and creative cultures. However, bravo to leadership who have taken an intentional leap into creating healthier and more optimistic cultures. Although they are few and far between. My point being, work with what works for, in this case, highly creative people, and set them up for success.

Is it worth it? Absolutely, as they will enhance, create, expand, grow, evolve environments they hang in.

Just know that - you can’t hold down a creative. Don't even try. Plus, it's no fun. Rules are meant to be looked at differently. Crushed and reassemble even. So, take a creative ride with a creative person, and see what they see. It’ll expand your thinking. Or rather, let it expand your thinking.

Creativity is a beautiful thing. It gets you out of your head and into your soul. It frees you from the overthinking and allows you to expand your mind outside of the confines of your brain. It opens your heart and actively amplifies your voice.

Take a ride on the creative side. But don’t hold on tightly.