Greetings readers!  As Mark has us dusting off alternative work schedule policies and considering what to do next, some recent findings on creativity and productivity from the Harvard Business School might be of interest.  (Actually, I was wondering why these AWS policies might need to be dusted off, as it was not THAT long ago when we all were wearing bell-bottoms—was it??)

Research by Professors Amabile, Tripsas and Khaire is described by Julia Hanna in the article, Getting Down to the Business of Creativity.  Whether considering a new venture, restructuring a current operation, engaging in M&A, or launching an entrepreneurial endeavor, creativity from your workforce is a core necessity.   This is especially true for any business effort that is beyond the capacity and resources presently available.

Dr. Amabile describes two myths about creativity and the workplace:

• Myth 1: Creativity is dependent on a genius, artist or charismatic leader.  
• Reality 1: Creativity depends more on the collective work of a group of people.  
• Myth 2: Creativity requires a trade-off in productivity.  
• Reality 2: Creativity and productivity are intertwined and interrelated.

What is most exciting about this research is the notion that creativity can be learned.  Hence, if managers understand how to create conditions for creativity, such as bringing importance to the everyday interactions and working conditions of employees, then creativity can be developed.  By supporting the progress of employees through role clarity and feedback while tending to interactions to encourage diversity of thought, the “inner work-life” of employees can be related to creativity and, in turn, brought to bear on performance. 

So, the merits of alternative work schedules are certainly nested in the merits of creativity.  It is a relief that some good ideas never do go away—because while I am not much of a dancer, I do love those bell-bottom jeans!

Let’s keep the conversation going.

Note that Shannon is a better dancer than she’s letting on.

Robin has had a fascinating and somewhat unconventional career by any measure.  She began as a copywriter for Penthouse, helped Runner’s World with its national launch, and eventually founded Parenting Magazine through a JV with Time Inc.  Her pre-launch negotiations with Time are memorialized in an HBS Case that has been studied by over 10,000 MBA students.    

The introduction rightly sets the tone, with Robin stating that, “The lessons I learned in business all point to one broad truth: Success follows when you use what you’ve got. You will succeed because of, not in spite of, your personal traits. The trick is to make your aptitude and flair work for you in a style that is uniquely yours.”  

Robin then offers 80 “Naked Truths” to aid others in learning from the good, bad and ugly of her experiences, ranging from:

• “Sometimes it’s better to be female in business, sometimes it’s worse, but it’s rarely the same.” (#1)
• “Viva la difference. When being a female is an advantage, use it.” (#5)
• “You can learn, and benefit, from others’ ethical lapses.” (#30)
• “Return phone calls and emails.” (#59)

What did Tom Peters think?

“It is by far (assuming I know the turf, which I think I pretty much do) the best book on strategy and tactics for women aiming to make it big in business—big biz or entrepreneurial biz. Moreover, I think any male—myself included, at age 63—can learn an enormous amount from this book.”

So you’re probably wondering why a guy in his late 30s would go on and on about a book for women in business.  Here’s why – I had the pleasure of meeting Robin for lunch in New York (her hometown is San Fran) a little over a month ago.  We discussed her new venture, TeeBeeDee, an online community for those in the middle of life’s adventures.  More importantly, I had an opportunity to listen and watch, to hear the passion in her voice and plans for the future, to see an experienced executive apply her gut instincts while admitting that she didn’t know all the answers.  It was very refreshing and reminded me that sometimes we need to stop aspiring to be the people others want us to be and fully embrace who we are, warts and all.

So pick up a copy if you’re so inclined and let’s keep the conversation (and enlightenment) going.