A couple of years ago, I was overhearing a discussion between 2 bankers while queuing for a cup of coffee. One of them was stating that in tough economic times, men started to wear ties again. I have always wondered why... perhaps to make a final impression on the boss when he calls you into his office and tells you you're fired? Another plausible explanation would be that you do not stand out in a crowd full of black striped suits, white shirts and ties. Don't make yourself conspicuous by trying to be different, just keep a low profile and stay under the radar for as long as you can.
Anyway, in times of economic downturn it's definitely back to boredom. Have you read some of the job offerings lately? They are all boring, uninspired and unappealing. Instead of trying to stand out in the crowd and be different they all follow the "thirteen in a dozen" principle. Why is it that we tend to lose the power of creativity in times of recession? Now it's the time to grab the opportunity and differentiate yourself. When other companies freeze their recruitment activities, you have to start hiring like crazy. When everybody looks for the conventional, look for the unconventional. If others look to maintain a status quo, go for the disruptive.
My point is - and the point is inspired by Sir Ken Robinson who I saw talking at CA World 08 in Las Vegas - that we have to stimulate ourselves to be more creative and open minded. Especially now when the going gets tough, get out there and look for those people that can stimulate creative thinking in your organization. So stop looking for sales managers and engineers and start recruiting Chief Creativity Officers, Innovation Ninjas, Creative Monkeys, Process Disruptors, Generation Y specialists, Trendwatchers and the like... It's time for a new deal, it's time for a creative deal!
