Opportunities For Creativity
SOLUTIONS
Creative solutions come from one ’ s being , not textbooks .
Cole Fulkerson is the young , confident , long-haired , high-energy district manager for the local Jersey Mike ’ s Subways franchises . He comes to that world with a degree in political science . He does not have the typical “ look ” or background of an experienced district fast food manager , but his ways work because they are based on who he is and his belief system regarding work ; this is where creative solutions come from .
“ I like new challenges that I haven ’ t seen before ,” Cole said during the interview . He has been watching over two shops already open in the area , and navigating the challenges of opening a third shop at the end of August . New challenges arise every day , ranging from construction-related issues , to customer service , to helping train a new team of employees . A firm believer in maximizing opportunity , he expects the same of his team as he does of himself : when opportunity arises , you have to work it . Whether the opportunity is a creative solution for a new customer question , or that of capitalism ’ s ability to build success ( or anything in between ), he cites challenges as opportunity and opportunity as growth .
Cole does not cite management gurus or college classes . He develops solutions based on all the experiences he can look to and a natural desire to learn by experience .
“ Some people think I am overly confident , but that is who I am . I ’ m doing a good job , and I expect my team to do so , too . I tell them ,‘ When you are outworking me , you should have my job .’” He punctuates the statement with a smile . Some key takeaways regarding creative solutions in a fast-paced time of change include :
Be Clear About Expectations
Expectations should be clear to your team , your boss ( or investors ), customers and yourself . Keep in mind that expectations go both ways ; make sure that they are clear and communicated in both directions .
From Creative People
By Dion McInnis , Empowered Creativity Institute
Dion @ Dionmcinnis . com
Be Generous With Time and Opportunity
It is easier to be generous with opportunity than time , but often managers and leaders limit both . Cole ’ s approach of empowering a team to grow quickly in their confidence and skills is to continue to add more opportunity when they are ready . “ Some are ready when others aren ’ t , and that is okay with me . But they need to work the opportunities they get ,” he said .
Be Hungry to Learn
During the interview , Cole received a call about a problem that had come up .“ I ’ ve never had one like that before ,” he said ,“ but I ’ m looking forward to it . I like new challenges so I can learn new things .”
Challenges provide opportunities to learn and to use one ’ s creative abilities by integrating and applying knowledge .
Keep Your Eye on the Ball
Training teams , overseeing construction , managing community relations , troubleshooting issues … despite the abundance of distractions , Cole maintains focus on deadlines , budget lines and timelines .
Keep Smiling
No matter what , keep smiling . Studies have shown that smiling improves one ’ s own attitude and spirit , as well as of those around you . Besides , life ’ s too short to not go through it smiling .
MOMENTUM / September 2016 21