Consider the last product or service that inspired you. It is likely that creativity played a role in why you were drawn to it. The design aesthetic, compelling back story, clever engineering, or practical utility all took a creative and innovative process. I think we would all agree that ideas and innovation are the currency of success.

Collaborate to innovate: What does this mean for our way of working in the future?

Creative workers are led by ideas rather than process. They work in social, collaborative groups rather than alone or in tightly managed teams. They collaborate to innovate. Content and expression rather than targets and KPIs drive them. This impacts on the traditional view of the working week. We are seeing a shift from office-based to café-based; from permanent to freelance; from 9-5 to anytime. How do we work together with others and generate creative currency through social creativity? Here are five simple tips to collaborate and innovate to the max:

1. Who you gonna call?

Think carefully about those around you who can help and support your ideas. Research proves that trust is an important part of the creative process. Who do you trust with your ideas and thoughts? What role can they play in helping those ideas fly? What complementary expertise can they bring to the table?

2. Build a profile

Time to tell a story. You’re creative. Others will be interested in how you have come to be who you are and do what you do. The origins of ideas can be inspiring and motivating. Consider the origins of yours and get out there to engage your collaborative partners. They’ll love to contribute.

3. Network

Use a range of tools to help you. Sign up and contribute to communities of interest in your field. Use social media to promote your profile and thinking. Go out, shake hands and drink coffee. Sharing is caring. You will be surprised about what you will get in return.

4. Get out of the PJs.

We’ve all been there. Genuine reasons such as hitting the emails all day combine with wasting 3 hours in front of daytime TV. Get ready for a full working day and get out of the house with a sense of creative purpose. Use cafes and co-working spaces to connect with others and you’ll be more efficient and happier.

5. Collaborate to innovate and love it.

Creativity is about passion. Without that we are lost. If you don’t really love it you’ll deliver mediocre results and eventually it won’t work for you. Equally, those around you want to come on the journey. To get the most out of others, be honest with yourself. Follow your heart and you’ll smash it!