Diversity and Creativity

Diverse groups are more creative than homogeneous ones, because members have different experiences and perspectives, and are less likely to fall into the “groupthink” trap of consensus thinking. Mix beginners, who may come up with fresh approaches, with experienced people, and include both “divergent” and “convergent” thinkers.  The drawback to diversity is that it increases the likelihood of conflict.

Thus, the job of the group leader is to “make conflict creative” by taking these steps:

• Establish ground rules.
• Underscore the importance of respect.
• Teach people to attack one another’s ideas, but not one another.
• Model “active listening.”
• Give everyone an opportunity to speak.
• Use conflict as a source of learning.
• Encourage people to be playful.
• Encourage risk taking.
• Learn from failure.
• Celebrate successes.