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Ref. Code: InfoGraphic ManagingCreatives 7.7.17.ai

TYPICAL CHALLENGES when managing creative team members:

TimeManagement Motivation Consistency Criticism

Assume that just because the work product is good that motivation isn’t needed

Treat each team member the same with regards to motivation

Work with each team member to determine what motivates them

Have honest conversations about the need for autonomy

Recognize that people are more productive in different environments at different times of day

Require conformity when customer needs are not being met

Let accommodation of differences jeopardize customer demands

Have rigid require-ments when the team is performing at optimum level

Praise publicly if the team member isn’t receptive to it

Treat everyone the same

Have your hardest worker do menial tasks because you know they will do a good job

Provide reasons and rationale for criticism

Recognize differences and approach each team member as an individual

Ensure each team member has a moment to shine

In the training industry, the creatives on your team are the lifeblood of your organization. They keep your product fresh; they solve the most difficult problems, often inventing something that never existed; and they inject energy into an environment that can be fraught with challenges.

The issue most face, however, is how to manage the creative while not impeding creativity. How do we encourage this creativity while simultaneously running a business? This infographic includes challenges that managers often face and five best practices to include in your management approach.

With all of the books available on managing people, rarely do we come across a publication that addresses one of the most challenging populations to manage: the creative.

MANAGING CREATIVES

Have honest conversa-tions when there are differences of opinion

Make sure your opinion is backed by facts or evidence

Balance the risk of being wrong versus the need to be right

Take a “my way or the highway” approach

Need to always win an argument

1. Have honest conversations about challenges that you are facing

2. Provide reasons why you need alteration in standard practices (working hours or location) and the benefits your employer will see

3. Choose your battles wisely; not every battle is worth fighting

4. Ensure you are contributing and taking care of your responsibilities

5. Be understanding about the needs of the business, and work together to find a path to mutual success

5 TIPSYOU can use to take control of your own SUCCESS:

For more on ideas to support successfully managing creatives, download our

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Freedom and Flexibility Are Important But freedom comes with accountability

BEST PRACTICE #1

Being Recognized Is ImportantBEST PRACTICE #2

Let go of your own preferences and their preferences, and choose what is best for the customer

Base your decisions around what you would do or how you were treated in the past

Make rules or restrictions that you don’t need

Motivation Is NeededBut so is autonomy

BEST PRACTICE #4

Not Every Battle Is Important to WinBEST PRACTICE #3

Consistency Is Not Always NeededBEST PRACTICE #5

ARE YOU ACREATIVE?