World Creativity and Innovation Week is celebrated from April 15thuntil April 21stin which the final day is celebrated as World Creativity and Innovation Day. This “holiday” began in Toronto, Canada in 2001 and then expanded its celebrations in 2002 to places across the world in specific cities in Brazil, Thailand, the Netherlands, the United States, and Canada. Groups in these cities celebrated the day by focusing on creativity by hosting workshops, activities, and/ or meetings. From that point on, the word spread and online groups were created lending to celebrations in more cities all around the world in the years to come. Finally in 2017, the United Nations decided to include World Creativity Day as a Day of Observance. The objective of this holiday is to inspire and prompt people all over the world to use their creativity, imagination, and vision to make the world a better place.
Creativity and innovation are key components of being an entrepreneur and without a doubt help small businesses. As business owners things can get very busy but it is important to take the time to step back and remember why you started your business… often times because of your creativity and innovation! As well, it is even more important as entrepreneurs, we take the time to encourage these qualities in employees, family members, and friends. This year we should all make a promise to celebrate World Creativity and Innovation Day in our small businesses! Here are a few simple ways to do so:
- Brainstorm! Take time to brainstorm new ideas either by yourself or with a group. Maybe your business has a weekly employee meeting and if so that is the perfect time to brainstorm. Whether it is a new marketing idea, an event to host, or a way to capture more customers coming up with fresh ideas at a brainstorming session will allow for everyone to tap into their creative side. As well, it allows your employees to feel like they have had a direct impact in making a decision or helping your business.
- Research! Spend time researching your industry and see what the new trends are. This could spark new ideas and help you to expand into new markets, products, or services. Remember, Google utilized the 80/20 rule where they spent 20% of the time innovating and coming up with new projects or ideas. A variation of this could be added into your work schedule or your employee’s weekly tasks. For example, a midweek research session could be scheduled where employees devote an hour or so to research and project ideas.
- Have Fun! Don’t be afraid of having some fun in your office each week! Something as simple as having a dress down day on a Friday could spark some creativity. As well, having some things in the office that allow for a sensory experience help to find new inspiration; like having bright colors, abstract art, music playing, and moving desks around are all easy ways to do so. Another idea would be to have a fun event on a Friday afternoon, like coffee or donuts out on the conference table; it gets people out of their office and chatting with one another. This would be a great time to brainstorm as well!
These are just a few ways in which you can celebrate World Creativity and Innovation Week and Day at your business! If you are interested in learning more about this holiday, visit www.wciw.org. You will also be able to find some more great ideas on how celebrate at work, home, or school. If brainstorming or researching have lead you to a new business idea or to expand your current business, remember to reach out to The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center for all your business needs. You can find more information about the SBDC’s services at our website, www.scrantonsbdc.com.
Danielle Guari
Business Consultant
The University of Scranton
Small Business Development Center
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