Unlocking Innovation in a Diverse Teams by Embracing the Power of Collaboration!

Working with a diverse group of individuals brings immense value to any team, but let’s face it, it’s not always a walk in the park. Sometimes, it can even spark what we call “Creative Abrasion.” 💥 However, amidst conflicting opinions and diverse perspectives, something magical happens — new and innovative ideas begin to take shape.

So, how can you harness the full potential of your team’s creativity? Inspired by some incredible principles developed by Julian Gorodsky and Peter Rubin. These principles foster a supportive, honest, empathic, open, and comfortable environment where creative ideas flourish.

1. Unleash Your Superpowers! Imagine your team as a band of extraordinary superheroes, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses (just like having your own kryptonite!). To maximize the team’s effectiveness, divide the workload strategically, ensuring everyone’s strengths are put to good use.
2. Embrace the Beautiful Tension of Diversity. The real magic lies in the dynamic tension created by diverse viewpoints. Yes, it can occasionally spark conflicts and miscommunication, but it’s precisely this richness that makes diverse teams a fertile ground for creativity. Embrace those risky conversations, valuing divergence over conformity.
3. Get Personal and Be Authentic. Don’t leave your personal life at the doorstep of your professional world. Creative thinking flourishes when you bring your whole self to work. Start team meetings with a round of “How are you doing, really?” check-ins or share something personal about yourself. Each team member’s unique life experiences contribute to the brilliance on the table.
4. Building Relationships that Matter. When we reflect on our journey five years from now, what truly counts are the relationships we forged along the way, not just the project outcomes. Keep things in perspective and prioritize nurturing strong working relationships. After all, it’s the connections that make the journey worthwhile.
5. Craft Your Collective Experience. Before you embark on the exciting days ahead, take a moment to envision how you’ll support each other. Define the principles you want to uphold and set clear goals for both personal and professional growth with this project. Let your shared vision propel you to greatness!
6. Embrace the Fun Factor! Make having fun together a priority. Engaging in activities outside of work not only strengthens collaboration but also cultivates a sense of camaraderie. Whether it’s going on a thrilling hike, sharing a delightful meal, playing games, or sweating it out as a team, laughter and enjoyment will fuel your collective brilliance.

Originally published here