Ever wish you could come up with the next big, brilliant idea, the 21st century equivalent of the light bulb, or even the Post-It note? Or when you hear of something clever, you think, “Wish I’d thought of that.” Especially at this time of year, when our brains often feel as frozen as our toes, the warmth of a bright idea seems as appealing, and elusive, as a sunbeam.
Don’t try so hard, berating those gray cells to get creative— just walk away from it. Physically, if you can. Head outdoors for a moment, take in a gulp of frosty air, scan the sky, whether it’s the color of slush or sapphires. It’s like mentally clearing your desk, leaving it open to new project or a fresh approach.
For a bigger boost, go for the unfamiliar: a museum or gallery. Gaze at the paintings or sculptures, letting your mind glide over the hues and shapes and even the quiet surroundings. Or if you’re in too much of a hurry to absorb culture, check out a place that’s outside of your own interests. A tech-minded friend claims her creativity pops when she walks into—a fabric store! “It’s so outside my world, that all the different textures, displays, items I don’t even know the names of, will start my mind clicking,” she says. “Color especially will ‘speak’ to me.” If you’re skeptical, just pick up a shade card in any paint department—Meadowbrook Mellow, Birdhouse Blue, Picket Fence. The color roll call that runs from prosaic to pure poetry may tickle the start of an idea just waiting for an invitation.
Add to the experience by bringing a colleague or friend along, for a parallel but new view of the same horizon. You’ll also double the chances of sparking a new idea. “What if we did that?” your colleague might say, noticing a museum’s collection of informational brochures, or a gift shop’s limited-hours sale. Even borrowing an idea is okay—it’s new to you. And it’ll lead to an improved version, customized with your unique take, and fitted to your own customers’ hopes.
For some new ideas and approaches to your customer service plan, consider calling Market Viewpoint for a consultation. We’re always happy to share the great ideas we collect from the various industries we serve. Who knows? Maybe meeting with us us just the spark you need to take your service to the next level!
What are some of the new customer service ideas you’ve come up with recently?